OUR DOOZY DAISIES

You can plant these simple flowers in drifts for a complex tapestry of vibrant colours

So often beautifully referred to as the flower of innocence and a new beginning, you'll find daisies being delightful all over the world. But nothing beats the Australians. Also known as paper, straw or everlasting daisies, their stiff petals rustle when touched, seem to last forever and are a must in dried arrangements because they retain their brilliantly rich colours. And there are so many to choose from! Pick a favourite and plant it in a pot or grow them all by spraying a mix of seeds over a large patch and you'll have your own crackling wildflower garden that can last from late winter through to the end of summer.

STRAWFLOWER

(Xerochrysum sp, formerly Helichrysum sp) The best known of the paper daisies, this clumping evergreen perennial from WA flowers in many colours - pink, white, yellow, red and orange. What looks like a circle of stiff petals is in fact large papery bracts. This daisy handles dry, hot conditions, although responds brilliantly to watering. Flowering from spring to autumn it's pretty in a cottage garden and ideal for a spot on the coast. Or put it in a pot!

Aspect Full sun.

Climate Warm to cool temperate, Mediterranean.

Form Small shrub, 20-50cm tall or in prostrate form.

Soil Well-drained sandy, loamy, clay loam, potting mix.

Water Weekly during spring/summer.

Food Slow-release fertiliser at first bloom.

PAPER DAISY OR CHAMOMILE SUNRAY