Common everlasting – Wagga Flora

Chrysocephalum apiculatum

Common everlasting

Chrysocephalum apiculatum

Chrysocephalum apiculatum

Common everlasting

Chrysocephalum apiculatum

Description.

Highly variable forb which may be divided into multiple species in future. Two distinct varieties are known from the Wagga region. The first is a low-growing (to 30 centimetres) forb with densely hairy, grey, linear or lance-shaped leaves. This form tends to occur in dense, spreading patches. The second variety is taller (to 60 cm) with broader, rounded leaves which tend to be green on top and paler underneath. This form tends to occur as single plants, though it may be a dominant understorey species. All varieties have a crown of yellow, button-shaped flower heads. These are larger than those of C. semipapposum but less numerous. Other varieties, including intermediates, may also occur locally. Flowers are followed by tiny, dark seeds which carry a plume of fine hairs to allow for dispersal by wind.

Propagation.

Seed will germinate without pre-treatment but is unreliable. Success has been reported from cuttings.

Flowering.

Chiefly spring-early summer. Spot flowering occurs year-round.

Locations.

Common by well-preserved roadsides and in many local reserves

Based on the flora of the Graham Centre Biodiversity Nursery