Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Asteraceae

Genus:

Xerochrysum

Species:

Xerochrysum bracteatum

USDA Symbol:

BRBR15

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Annual

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

100 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug,sep,oct

Bloom Colors:

yellow, orange, red, pink, white

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

butterflies, bees

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Native to fire-prone Australian grasslands and open woodlands; resprouts from base after fire.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Thrives in poor, sandy soils typical of Australian habitats.

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

None required

Germination Time:

7–14 days

Notes:

Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover. Germinates readily at 18-22°C.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI