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Alpine RockeryShrubs

Leucophyta brownii
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

cushion bush

Leucophyta brownii is a small compact dense rounded cross-branching tender bush with striking silver white downy stems and tiny scale-like silver-grey fragrant leaves, in late summer bearing small, round terminal creamy white heads of pale yellow flowers ageing to dull cream

Other common names
cushion bush
Synonyms
Calocephalus brownii
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Grey Silver
Summer Cream Yellow Grey Silver
Autumn Grey Silver
Winter Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming, Spreading branched
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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Australia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows 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.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Ground cover
Pruning

Pinch out stem tips of young plants to encourage bushy growth. Pruning Group 10. Will not tolerate hard pruning.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to grey moulds

Get involved

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