How to grow paper daisy
Overview
Paper daisy (Rhodanthe chlorocephala) is a fast-growing annual herbaceous wildflower from the Asteraceae family, grown for its cheerful, papery flower heads in shades of pink, white, and yellow. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is ideal for filling gaps in garden beds or mass plantings with native grasses.
Varieties
- Rhodanthe chlorocephala subsp. rosea — Pink-flowered form, the most common in Australian gardens, with soft rose petals and a yellow centre.
- Rhodanthe chlorocephala 'White' — White-flowered variety, often used in mass plantings for a crisp, clean look.
Soil Preparation
Paper daisy prefers free-draining, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Improve drainage in heavy soils by adding coarse sand or gravel. Avoid rich, compost-heavy mixes; a lean soil with low organic matter is best to prevent lush growth that attracts pests.
Growing Guide
Sow seeds directly into well-drained, sandy or loamy soil in full sun after the last frost in temperate zones, or in autumn in subtropical areas. Space plants 20–30 cm apart to allow good air circulation. Press seeds lightly into the surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Keep soil moist until seedlings emerge (7–14 days), then reduce watering. Avoid heavy clay or wet sites to prevent root rot.
Sowing
Sow seeds directly on the soil surface, barely covering with a fine layer of sand or vermiculite, as they need light to germinate. Space seeds 20–30 cm apart. Germination takes 7–14 days at 18–22°C. Direct sowing is preferred; transplant only if necessary, as seedlings can be sensitive to root disturbance.
Care
Feed lightly at planting with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser, and again when buds appear. No pruning is needed, but regular deadheading of spent flowers encourages more blooms. Remove any yellowing leaves to maintain air flow.
Companion Planting
Mass plant paper daisies with native grasses like Poa labillardieri or Themeda triandra for a naturalistic look. They also pair well with other low-growing annuals such as Brachyscome and Scaevola. Avoid planting near moisture-loving plants like ferns or impatiens, which may encourage overwatering.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids may cluster on new growth or flower buds; spray with a mild soap solution or neem oil if infestation is heavy. Whitefly and thrips can also occur in hot, dry conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.
Harvesting
Harvest flowers when the petals are fully open and the papery texture is firm, usually in late spring to summer. Cut stems early in the morning for longest vase life. Deadhead regularly to extend the blooming period, but leave some flowers to self-seed for next year.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage – reduce water and improve soil. Stunted growth: cold snap or frost – wait for warmth or protect with fleece. Powdery mildew on leaves: poor air circulation – space plants wider and avoid overhead watering. Leggy stems: too much shade or rich soil – move to full sun and reduce fertiliser. Flowers not opening: aphid damage – check buds and spray if needed.