Botanical Name:
Rhodanthe species, Schoenia filifolia, Xerochrysum bracteatum
General Description/History:
Everlastings are annual flowers that are endemic to WA and make up a large part of the spectacular wildflower display that occur every spring. The name is a reference to the fact that they make excellent dried flowers, and do seem to last forever. Stem lengths are usually short and less than 50 cm. Flowers are typically daisy-like and consist of red, pink or white papery bracts surrounding a yellow centre. Yellow everlastings are most commonly Schoenia filifolia which have pale yellow star-shaped flowers, or Xerochrysum bracteatum, which have more rounded flowers with many more petals, and a darker yellow colour. There are also white and red forms of Xerochrysum bracteatum. Rhodanthe flowers are usually R. chlorocephala, and are up to 6 cm across, pink or white with a prominent yellow centre, and have many papery bracts.
Everlastings are either harvested from the bush or grown in the field. Most are grown in WA.
Common Names:
Everlasting Daisy
Stem Length:
30 to 50 cm
Country Of Origin:
Australia: WA
Available Colours:
Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Availability:
What to look for:
- Buy when flowers are fully open and buds are showing strong colour.
- Avoid bunches with shrivelled flowers and yellowing leaves.
Flower Care:
1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the bottom half of each stem and wash thoroughly.
3. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in water immediately.
4. Always use a preservative as this will help buds to open.
5. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every 2 to 3 days.
6. To dry, hang upside down in a well ventilated room.
Interesting Facts about this Flower:
The name Rhodanthe is derived from the Greek words ‘rhodon’, rose and anthos, flower.
