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Brachyscome multifida

Common Names: 
Cut-leaf Daisy

A low, rhizomatous groundcover with finely divided leaves to approximately 2 cm long. It grows to about 15 cm in height. Pale lilac daisy flowers are produced above the foliage on fine stems. A single plant in open ground may spread approximately 50cm in diameter.

Ecology: 

This Cut-leaf daisy is a valuable habitat species. The flowers are produced over a long period, providing nectar for a large range of invertebrates. In my garden, on a sunny day, they are rarely without attendant Hoverflies and Saltbush Blue Butterflies (Theclinesthes serpentata) and Grass Blue butterflies (Zizina labradus).

Revegetation: 

This species is appropriate for Grassy Woodland plant communities.

Gardening Hints: 

Many cultivars and varieties of this species are available in nurseries. These are often selections of provenances found up the eastern coast of Australia (eg. CV.'Break O'Day'). Typically the forms selected have are more dense with more plentiful flowers in a range of colours. These are popular garden plants in the Northern hemisphere. Such plants will not be appropriate if you are seeking to grow locally indigenous plants. Very attractive local provenances and are available from Indigenous plant nurseries. For instance, plants from Greensborough have attractive shiny foliage with glittery wedge-shaped leaf-tips, a feature not found in the forms commonly sold in nurseries. The rangier growth habit allows the indigenous forms to grow through and amongst other low-growing plants. Consider growing it with Asperula conferta, Veronica gracilis and Microlaena stipoides for an attractive 'tapestry' effect.

Propagation: 

Very readily propagated by cuttings. Any small piece inserted into a moist soil in the garden over winter is likely to take root and provide a healthy new plant by spring.