Actinotus helianthi Labill. (Umbelliferae) Flannel Flower A sub-shrubby perennial or annual with yellowish flower heads surrounded by soft white woolly bracts, native of Queensland and New South Wales especially around Sydney, growing in rocky sandy soils in open forest, flowering in August–February. Stems to 1.5m; leaves to 10cm with 3 deeply lobed segments. Flower heads 5–8cm across; flowers without petals. This attractive plant needs very well-drained sandy soil in dappled shade or full sun with some shade and moisture at the root. Propagate by cuttings or fresh seed; stored seed may take a year to germinate and may be stimulated by passing over a flame to scorch the outer seed coat. Min. -3°C.

Actinotus helianthi wild near Sydney