How to Grow Billy Buttons
Pycnosorus globosus
Billy Buttons (Pycnosorus globosus) are cool-season annuals from Australia grown for their iconic bright yellow spherical flower heads on tall, straight stems. Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost and transplant after frosts have passed. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil — they tolerate drought well but dislike wet roots. Ideal for cutting gardens; the flowers dry beautifully and hold their vivid yellow colour for months. Deadhead to prolong the display or harvest regularly for fresh and dried arrangements.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Apply a balanced liquid feed monthly once established. Avoid excess nitrogen which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
- Billy Buttons thrive in free-draining soil and full sun. Their drought tolerance makes them ideal for dry borders. Excellent both as a fresh cut flower and for dried arrangements.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
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- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 25 cm |
| Row spacing | 30 cm |
| Mature height | 50 cm |
| Mature spread | 20 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Billy Buttons?
- Plant Billy Buttons 25cm apart with 30cm between rows.
- When does Billy Buttons flower?
- Billy Buttons typically flowers approximately 90 days after transplanting.
- Is Billy Buttons frost hardy?
- Billy Buttons is classified as Half Hardy.
