Leucophyta brownii

RHS Plant Profile
cushion bush

Other common names

Australian garland flower

Synonyms

Calocephalus brownii

Plants for pollinators
Alpine Rockery Shrubs

Leucophyta brownii is a small compact dense rounded cross-branching tender bush with striking silver white downy stems and tiny scale-like silver-grey fragrant leaves, in late summer bearing small, round terminal creamy white heads of pale yellow flowers ageing to dull cream

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming, Spreading branched
Genus
A genus of just one species (L. brownii) of perennial plant, native to rocky parts of Australia with silvery, ghost-like foliage. Silver, button-like buds appear in late spring to summer, opening to spherical racemes of yellow flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Australia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in well-drained gritty soil in full-sun. May be short-lived. Also grow in peat-free, loam-based gritty compost in full light under glass. Requires moderate watering and monthly feed with balanced liquid fertiliser.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Ground cover

Pruning

Pinch out stem tips of young plants to encourage bushy growth. Pruning Group 10. Will not tolerate hard pruning.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to grey moulds