Xerochrysum bracteatum Cockatoo (Helichrysum)

Common Name: Cockatoo Everlasting Daisy, Cockatoo Strawflower

Description:
Xerochrysum bracteatum 'Cockatoo' is a vibrant Australian native perennial or annual, prized for its striking, papery-textured flowers in bright shades of yellow, orange, pink, red, and white. Flowering prolifically from spring through autumn, it thrives in Melbourne’s climate, preferring well-drained soil and full sun. With a bushy, clumping habit, 'Cockatoo' is ideal for garden beds, borders, wildflower gardens, and pots. Its long-lasting flowers are perfect for fresh and dried floral arrangements. Highly drought-tolerant once established, this low-maintenance plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial pollinators, making it a fantastic choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Form:

• Shrub - Small
• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding
• Ground Cover

Mature Size:

• Height: 30–80 cm
• Width: 30–60 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring
• Flowers in Summer
• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:

• Yellow
• Orange
• Pink
• Red
• White

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Australian Native
• Drought Tolerant
• Perennial (some varieties grown as annuals)
• Low Maintenance
• Bee Attracting
• Suitable for Cut Flowers
• Suitable for Dried Flowers

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos)
• Grevillea
• Lomandra
• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Salvia