Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’: The Golden Spheres that Brighten Your Garden

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’ is an evergreen perennial that forms a narrow rosette of silver-green linear foliage covered in woolly hairs. This plant thrives in warm climates, blooming year-round with a profusion of charming, golf ball-like flowers, each about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across. The flowers are not only visually appealing but also versatile, making excellent cut flowers for fresh or dried floral arrangements.

Craspedia globosa, commonly known as Billy Buttons, is a captivating plant native to the Outback of Australia and New Zealand. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is renowned for its diverse and often showy flower species. The ‘Golf Beauty’ variety is particularly notable for its striking golden-yellow spherical blooms that resemble small golf balls. These flowers are borne atop stiff, slender stems, adding a unique and playful element to garden landscapes.

Common Name: Billy Buttons ‘Golf Beauty’
Scientific Name: Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’
Family: Asteraceae

Plant Characteristics

• Height: 24-30 inches (60-75 cm)
• Width: 12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
• Blooming Season: Year-round in warm climates
• Exposure: Full Sun
• Foliage: Silver-green, linear, woolly hairs
• Flowers: Golden-yellow, spherical, 1 inch (2.5 cm) across

Care Instructions for Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’:

Light Requirements:

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. This exposure is essential for robust blooming and healthy growth.

Watering:

While ‘Golf Beauty’ is drought-resistant once established, it benefits from regular watering during the summer months. Ensure the soil is consistently moist but well-drained, as the plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.

Soil:

This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including heavy soils. Ideally, the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Amend clay-heavy soils with organic matter to improve drainage.

Temperature and Hardiness:

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’ is hardy to USDA zones 9-12, withstanding temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). In cooler climates, it may need protection from frost or can be grown as an annual.

Maintenance:

‘Golf Beauty’ is a low-maintenance plant, making it ideal for busy gardeners. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage continuous blooming and maintain a neat appearance. The plant’s silvery-green foliage adds visual interest even when not in bloom.

Pest and Disease Resistance:

This variety is fairly undemanding and resistant to most pests and diseases. It is also deer and rabbit-resistant, further reducing the need for intervention.

Propagation

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’ can be propagated by seeds or division.

Seeds:

1. Sowing: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Press seeds lightly into the soil surface without covering them, as they need light to germinate.
2. Temperature: Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C) and keep the soil moist.
3. Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart.

Division:

1. Timing: Divide mature plants in early spring or late autumn.
2. Method: Dig up the plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with at least a few shoots and roots.
3. Replanting: Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant and water well.

Special Features:

Adds a Pop of Color: The vibrant golden-yellow spherical flowers of ‘Golf Beauty’ create a visually striking display, bringing a cheerful and bright element to the garden.

Thrives in Various Conditions: This plant’s adaptability to both dry and moist environments makes it versatile for different garden settings, including ponds and sunny borders.

Low Maintenance: ‘Golf Beauty’ requires minimal care, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those who prefer fuss-free plants.

Excellent Cut Flower: The long-lasting blooms are perfect for fresh bouquets and dried floral arrangements, adding beauty to indoor and outdoor spaces alike.

Conclusion

Craspedia globosa ‘Golf Beauty’ is a delightful addition to any garden, offering year-round interest with its unique golden-yellow blooms and silvery-green foliage. Its resilience and low-maintenance nature make it a favorite among gardeners, while its versatility ensures it can thrive in various garden settings. Whether used in borders, mass plantings or as a standout feature in cut flower arrangements, ‘Golf Beauty’ is sure to add a touch of sunshine and charm to your garden.