Rhodanthe anthemoides

Rhodanthe anthemoides, commonly known as Chamomile Sunray, is a perennial species of the daisy family Asteraceae. It is endemic to Australia.^[2] Plants have multiple stems rising from the base which reach up to 40 cm high and spread to 60 cm wide.^[2][3][4] The leaves are about 10 mm long and 0.5 to 2 mm in width.^[2]

A central cluster of pale yellow flowers is surrounded by petal-like white, papery bracts. These appear between September and February in the species native range.^[3] These are followed by small dry achenes that have silky hairs.^[3]

The species occurs in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.^[2] Although a widespread species on the mainland, in Tasmania it is listed as "rare" under the TSP Act. It is found in mountainous regions growing in sandy soil.^[2]

Cultivation

The species is commonly cultivated, preferring a well drained, lightly shaded situation. Cutting back after flowering prevents plants from becoming straggly.^[4] Plants are well suited to being grown in containers.

Propagation is from seed or cuttings, named cultivars requiring the latter method to be true to type.^[4]

Cultivars include:

• 'Anna Star'^[1]
• 'Chamomile Cascade'^[1]
• 'Milky Way'^[1]
• 'Paper Baby' - a form with red buds^[4]
• 'Paper Cascade' - a form with red buds^[4]
• 'Paper Moon' ('Rhomoon')
• 'Paper Star' - compact form^[4]
• 'Paper Trail' ('Rhotrail')^[1]
• 'Southern stars'^[1]
• 'Sunray Snow'^[1]

References