About
Leucophyta brownii is a small compact dense rounded cross-branching tender bush with striking silver white downy stems and tiny scale-like silver-grey scented leaves, in late summer bearing small, round terminal creamy white heads of pale yellow flowers ageing to dull cream.
About the genus
A genus of just one species (L. brownii) of perennial plant, native to rocky parts of Australia with silvery, ghost-like foliage. Silver, button-like buds appear in late spring to summer, opening to spherical racemes of yellow flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Clump forming, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal
Native toAustralia
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in well-drained gritty soil in full-sun. May be short-lived. Also grow in peat-free, loam-based gritty compost in full light under glass. Requires moderate watering and monthly feed with balanced liquid fertiliser.
PruningPinch out stem tips of young plants to encourage bushy growth. Pruning Group 10. Will not tolerate hard pruning.
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds