221B-3-Craspedia-variabilis-fl-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Craspedia variabilis

Common Billy-buttons

Erect tufted perennial herb.

Additional information

  • SynonymCraspedia glauca
  • FamilyAsteraceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size30-50 cm x 0.5-1 m
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesHairy, pale to olive green leaves. Narrow, spoon-shaped leaves in a basal rosette, smaller stem leaves, 5-13 cm x 5-13 mm.
  • Flower colourGolden
  • Flowering timeSeptember to November
  • FlowersOne to several long erect flowering stems with a terminal globular flowerhead to 20 mm across.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNectar for butterflies
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist soil in low foothill forests. Limited restriction within the Shire. Frost tolerant. Full sun to semi shade.
  • Garden useSpectacular plant for massed flowering as an understorey plant, on an embankment or in containers. Flowers are long lasting and can be used in fresh or dried arrangements.
  • Commercially availableSpecialist Australian plant nursery
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: 1 Colleen Miller ©; 2-4 Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

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  • 21 Broad-leaf Peppermint Heathy Dry Forest (EVC 20)
  • 18 Messmate Shrubby Foothill Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 45)
  • 22 Silver-leaf Stringybark Heathy Woodland (EVC 48)
  • 19 Long-leaf Box Herb-rich Foothill Forest (EVC 23)
  • 26 Red Stringybark Grassy Dry Forest - Middle Yarra (EVC 22)
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