Family: Apiaceae

Related to carrots and parsnips, this genus includes some 12 species of showy, annual or perennial plants, native to Australia and the South Pacific islands. The small, dense flower heads are white, pink or blue, and make a pretty massed display in summer. Some species make good cut flowers.

Species

It is unlikely that all of these are available outside their native Australia.

T. coerulea, Rottnest Island daisy or blue lace flower, from Western Australia, is the most widely grown and probably the most reliable of the species. It grows to 45 cm (18 in), with dainty, pincushion heads of tiny, bright blue, summer flowers.

T. cyanopetala is a small, spreading plant, with lobed, hairy leaves and minute, deep blue flower heads in summer.

T. incisa is a peren­nial, native to New South Wales and parts of Queensland. The pretty foliage is finely dis­sected, and rounded heads of white flowers are borne on stems up to 50 cm (20 in) tall.

Cultivation

In frost-prone areas, sow seed in the middle of spring, under glass and germinate at 15°C (59°F). Plant out young plants when frosts are over. Alternatively, sow in flowering posi­tions at the end of spring. Bear in mind that seeds take several weeks to germinate. Grow plants in sandy, well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period.

Climate

Zone 9.