About
Orthrosanthus multiflorus, the Australian morning flower, is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 60 cm with narrow, upright then arching, grass-like leaves. Loose, upright spikes of pale-blue to violet-blue, saucer-shaped flowers are produced in late spring and early summer. An ornamental and rewarding plant for a sunny, well-drained, frost-free border.
About the genus
Orthrosanthus are rhizomatous perennials with narrow, grass-like leaves and bowl- or saucer-shaped, blue flowers in loose, terminal spikes in late spring and early summer. Grown in sunny, well-drained, frost-free positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toS Australia
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in peat-free, loam-based potting compost, with added sharp sand and leaf mould, in full light. Water moderately when in growth and hardly at all when dormant. In mild areas grow outdoors in a warm, sheltered spot in light, well-drained, humus-rich, fertile soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from seed (indoors) sown at 13-18°C or by division, in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free