How to Grow Flannel Flower
Actinotus helianthi
Half Hardy Warm Season
Flannel Flower thrives in full sun or light shade with excellent drainage and low-nutrient sandy soil. Avoid overwatering — soggy soil is the main cause of failure. Water at soil level only; never wet the foliage. Feed monthly with a native low-phosphorus fertiliser during the growing season. Tip-prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushiness. As a short-lived perennial, expect peak flowering in years two and three. Protect from frost.
When to Start
Sow indoors 6 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors after frost risk has passed and soil reaches 10°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Sow seeds
Day 0 Germination
~21 days Flowering
~120 days Seed to harvest ~120 days
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Monthly low-phosphorus native liquid fertiliser during the growing season.
- Excellent drainage is essential — overwatering is the most common cause of failure. Water at soil level to avoid wetting foliage. Use native-formulated low-phosphorus fertilisers only.
Growing Conditions
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- Direct sow
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 75 cm |
| Row spacing | null cm |
| Mature height | 100 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Flannel Flower?
- Plant Flannel Flower 75cm apart with nullcm between rows.
- Is Flannel Flower frost hardy?
- Flannel Flower is classified as Half Hardy.
