Origin

Bracteantha bracteata (Xerochrysum) are native to Australia and are widespread throughout the continent. The Sundaze® series are bred by Dr Kerry Bunker of Floreta Pty Ltd and have been sold in Europe, the United States and Canada for a number of years, where plants have received many awards. Sundaze® have been selected for their compact habit, long flowering period and disease resistance.

Care Instructions

Sundaze® Bracteantha perform best in full sun but will tolerate light shade. They withstand high temperatures and rainy periods. They need a free-draining soil, but do best if kept evenly moist. Dry soil may result in reduced flowering, leaf yellowing and wilting. Avoid wetting the foliage as this can encourage mildew, especially in humid conditions. An occasional light application of a balanced fertilizer or liquid feed is recommended, and regular picking of flowers and the removal of seed heads and light pruning will prolong the plant’s life and the flowering period. Cut flowers are best picked in the early morning or late evening. Select flower stems with full buds that are beginning to unfold the outer bracts. Stems may be kept fresh in water or dried by hanging upside down in an airy place.

Uses

Our website refers to these plants as providing “sunshine on a stem.” Certainly their sparkling, iridescent, paper-like flowers will brighten any garden or potted planting. In the garden they look best planted en-mass or singly in rockeries. In containers they can be planted as a specimen or in?f1 combinations. They can be used as fresh or dried cut flowers.