Family: Asteraceae
Author: (Labill.) Steetz
Bibliography: Pl. Preiss. 1(3): 474 (1845)
Year: 1845
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Chrysocephalum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Australia
Description
Common everlasting, scientifically known as Chrysocephalum apiculatum, is a striking and resilient perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. First documented in volume one, part three of “Plantae Preissianae” on page 474 in 1845, this species has been the subject of botanical interest for over a century. The work was authored by the esteemed botanist Johann Georg Christian Lehmann, drawing from the contributions of Labillardière and Steetz who formally named and classified it.
Native to Australia, the common everlasting is a prominent feature of the diverse Australian landscape. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from coastal regions to inland plains, demonstrating an impressive adaptability. Its natural resilience makes it a popular choice for gardeners seeking to recreate an authentic Australian flora vibe in their personal green spaces.
This plant is readily recognizable by its small, bright yellow inflorescences which cluster densely at the tips of long, slender stems. The blossoms persist through various seasons, contributing to its common name as the ‘everlasting’. The foliage of Chrysocephalum apiculatum consists of grey-green, hairy leaves that provide a striking contrast to its vibrant flowers, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.
Besides its beauty, Chrysocephalum apiculatum is valued for its low maintenance requirements and drought tolerance, characteristics that are particularly beneficial in arid regions. Its ability to flourish with minimal water makes it an exemplary choice for xeriscaping, promoting water conservation in gardening practices.
Culturally, Chrysocephalum apiculatum holds an important place in traditional Aboriginal medicine. Various parts of the plant have been used historically for their purported medicinal properties, adding another layer of significance to this versatile species.
In conclusion, the common everlasting is more than just an attractive ornamental plant; it is a symbol of resilience and adaptability ingrained in the Australian natural heritage. Appreciated for both its durability and decorative qualities, Chrysocephalum apiculatum stands as a testament to the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the Australian continent.
Common Names
Eng: common everlasting, yellow-buttons
Swe: guldhuvud
En: Common everlasting, Yellow-buttons
Sv: Guldhuvud
Synonyms
- Argyrocome apiculata ((Labill.) Cass.)
- Gnaphalium apiculatum (Labill.)
- Helichrysum apiculatum ((Labill.) D.Don ex G.Don)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Northern Territory (native)
- Queensland (native)
- South Australia (native)
- Tasmania (native)
- Victoria (native)
- Western Australia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by chris arg (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 9, 2022 by espoir foi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 28, 2020 by David Linke (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 26, 2022 by espoir foi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 25, 2021 by olivia barr (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by chris arg (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 5, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 5, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 5, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 24, 2019 by Daniel Grixti-Cheng (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 22, 2019 by Daniel Grixti-Cheng (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 19, 2022 by Alexandre DUPEROUX (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 5, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 9, 2022 by espoir foi (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Fruit
Taken Sep 26, 2020 by Tamara Tamara Britz (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3150895)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:193859-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chrysocephalum apiculatum (Labill.) Steetz)