Flannel-flower (Actinotus helianthi, Nov. Holl. Pl. 1: 67 (1805))

Family: Apiaceae

Author: Labill.

Bibliography: Nov. Holl. Pl. 1: 67 (1805)

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Actinotus

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Australia

Description

The Flannel-flower, scientifically known as Actinotus helianthi, is a captivating plant native to Eastern Australia. This striking species derives its common name from the soft, woolly texture of its petal-like bracts, which are reminiscent of flannel fabric. The botanical name, Actinotus helianthi, was first described in 1805 by the renowned botanist Labillardière in “Nov. Holl. Pl.”

Belonging to the Apiaceae family, the Flannel-flower is recognized for its distinctive appearance and delicate charm. The plant typically blooms in the spring and summer months, displaying star-shaped flowers that are pale to creamy white with densely pubescent, velvety bracts. These unique characteristics make the Flannel-flower a favored choice among gardeners and florists alike, often used in ornamental arrangements and garden landscapes.

In its natural habitat, the Flannel-flower thrives in sandy soils and rocky outcrops, where it enjoys full sun exposure. Its ability to adapt to various growing conditions also makes it a resilient species suitable for coastal gardens. The plant’s appealing texture and elegant blooms have made it an iconic symbol of Australian flora, celebrated for both its aesthetic qualities and its ability to evoke a sense of delicate beauty and resilience.

Whether appreciated in the wild or cultivated in a garden, the Flannel-flower remains a beloved and iconic plant of East Australia, capturing the essence of the region’s unique botanical beauty.

Common Names

Swe: flanellflocka
Eng: flannel-flower
En: Flannel-flower
Zh: 法绒花
Fi: Sydneynflanellikukka
Sv: Flanellflocka
Zh-tw: 法絨花

Synonyms

• Eriocalia major (Sm.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Dec 9, 2021 by Sco Flo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 10, 2020 by Mai Rostom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 2, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 22, 2016 by Andrew McNamara (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 22, 2016 by Andrew McNamara (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Nov 2, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 2, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 23, 2022 by Mysta Squiggle (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 24, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2022 by Dennis Buttigieg (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 8, 2021 by Mclaine (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 5, 2022 by Matthew Brown (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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5538649)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:837289-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Actinotus helianthi Labill.)

Specifications

Growth