Chrysocephalum apiculatum – Yellow Buttons

Chrysocephalum apiculatum – Yellow Buttons

Habit and Habitat:
Chrysocephalum apiculatum, commonly known as Yellow Buttons or Common Everlasting, is a low-growing, spreading perennial herb native to mainland Australia. It thrives in open grasslands, dry forests, and coastal heathlands, favouring well-drained soils and full sun exposure. Its natural resilience makes it ideal for tough garden spots and native revegetation projects.

Place in Local Habitat and Ecosystem Distribution:
Yellow Buttons plays an important role in ground-level biodiversity, offering nectar to a variety of native insects, particularly bees and butterflies. Its dense, mat-forming growth helps stabilise soils and suppress weeds, making it a valuable addition to native groundcover layers in a range of ecological zones.

Planting Companions:
Combines beautifully with other low-growing natives such as Brachyscome multifida (Cut-leaf Daisy), Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass), Goodenia ovata, and Scaevola aemula. These companions enhance pollinator habitat and maintain a soft, naturalistic feel in garden beds.

Human and Wildlife Uses:
While not widely used by humans in modern contexts, its visual appeal and ease of growth have earned it a place in ornamental native gardens and is often used in floriculture. Its dense habit can also provide small insects and ground-dwelling fauna with cover and habitat.

Care Instructions:
Yellow Buttons thrives in full sun with free-draining soil. It is drought-hardy once established and tolerates light frost. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage compact growth and continued blooming. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour.

Size, Height, Width, Flower, and Leaf Characteristics:
Typically grows 20 to 40 cm high and spreads up to 60 cm wide. Leaves are slender, grey-green and softly hairy. Clusters of vibrant, golden-yellow button flowers appear mainly in spring and summer, with occasional flushes at other times of year.

Latin Etymology:
The genus Chrysocephalum derives from Greek, meaning “golden head,” referring to its distinctive flower form. The species name apiculatum means “small pointed tip,” referring to the leaf shape.

Planting Guidelines:
Ideal for rockeries, borders, and native meadow gardens. Plant in a sunny, open position with good drainage. Avoid overwatering and keep mulch away from the crown. Low-maintenance and floriferous, Yellow Buttons is an excellent choice for long-season colour and pollinator support in home gardens.