About Chrysocephalum apiculatum (Labill.) Steetz
Common everlasting, Chrysocephalum apiculatum, grows to about 40 centimeters in height. It has spreading horizontal stems that turn upward as they lengthen. Its elongated silvery-grey leaves clasp tightly to the stems and are covered in fine, silky hairs. This plant produces yellow, spherical flower heads around 1 centimeter in diameter each, which are often borne in clusters; the individual florets within these heads are very small. Like many daisy species, its seeds are gradually dispersed by wind. The seeds germinate easily, but have a short viable lifespan. This plant grows in full sun on light, well-drained soil in grassy areas. It can tolerate moderately salty wind and dry conditions, and severe pruning can rejuvenate older plants. It is an important food plant for the Australian butterfly the painted lady, Vanessa kershawi.
