Acroclinium Blanche seeds - Everlasting

Acroclinium 'Blanche', also known by the botanical names Rhodanthe chlorocephala subsp. rosea, Helipterum roseum or Acroclinium roseum, is a frost-tender perennial from the Asteraceae family, cultivated as an annual in temperate climates. Native to southwestern Australia, particularly the coastal regions between Perth and Shark Bay, this plant thrives naturally in well-drained sandy soils, under a Mediterranean climate characterised by wet winters and dry summers. It forms an upright clump 30 to 50 cm in height, with fine, branched stems bearing linear, narrow, greyish-green leaves. The flower heads measure about 4 to 6 cm in diameter and feature papery, white bracts surrounding a yellow or black central disc, with no notable fragrance. Flowering occurs from June to September, attracting various pollinators. The fruits are dry, non-edible achenes, equipped with a feathery pappus that facilitates their dispersal by wind. The root system is clumping, adapted to light and well-drained soils. This plant is particularly prized for making dried bouquets, as the flowers retain their shape and colour after drying. Despite its many botanical reclassifications over time, it remains popular under the name 'Australian everlasting flower', a testament to its longevity as a dried flower.

Acroclinium 'Blanche' integrates gracefully into bright scenes. Its immaculate, paper-light flowers bloom above fine foliage, adding a touch of freshness to sunny borders. To accentuate this lightness, pair it with Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll', whose pale blue flowers and airy foliage create a subtle contrast. Limonium sinuatum 'QIS Apricot' introduces pastel hues and a complementary texture, while Bracteantha bracteata 'King Size Silvery Rose' offers warm tones and long-lasting flowering. Together, these plants create a harmonious picture, ideal for dry gardens, rockeries, or summer containers.