Silver Nugget
Leucophyta brownii ‘Silver Nugget’ or dwarf cushion bush is a small Australian native member of the daisy family. It has tiny hairs growing all over its leaves, giving the plant a silver appearance. The hairs reflect heat, reduce the rate of transpiration and shade the tissues below from intense light. Cushion bushes grow beautifully in seaside gardens.
Plant details
Common name: Dwarf Cushion Bush
Botanic name: Leucophyta brownii ‘Silver Nugget’ (formerly Calocephalus brownii).
Plants are named following an international naming code, the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature. In 1959 it was decided Latin should no longer be used for the naming of new plant varieties (cultivars). Instead it was recommended that a common language (in Australia, this would be English) should be used. This was done to simplify plant names for gardeners and nurseries.
Description: Dense, rounded shrub growing to around 1m high and 1m wide (3’x3′). It has silvery grey scale-like leaves and inconspicuous yellow flowers in summer.
Best climate: Coastal areas of southern Australia.
Best look:
seaside gardens hot, dry gardens foliage contrast plant
Good points:
attractive silver foliage highly resistant to sea spray seldom needs watering once established
Down side:
Short lived – renew plants by taking cuttings in summer
Care:
Cushion bushes like a sunny position with good drainage and air movement. They do not like high humidity.
Getting started:
Ask for cushion bushes at your local nursery. A plant in a 150mm (6″) pot costs around $8.95.