Family:

Asteraceae

Cassinia sifton

Dolly Bush

Other Names: Sifton Bush, Dogwood, Common Cassinia, Mountain Itch

Regional Subspecies:

n/a

Habit:

Small open aromatic shrub to 2 m high, small narrow leaves, white woolly long slender branches. Shiny pale-brown flowerheads, springautumn. Fast-growing.

Habitat & Site Preference:

White Cypress Pine and Grey Box Communities on loamy soils, and Black Box communities. Prefers well-drained soil in open, semi-shaded positions. Tolerates moist soil, full sun, and drought. Dislikes poor drainage. Prefers 300 – 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina.

Seed Collection & Propagation:

Collect early Feb-late Jun, seeds released 3-14 days after maturity. Propagate from seed, surface sow and cover lightly. Direct sow into pots due to small seedling size. Germinates readily year-round, grows rapidly.

Values & Uses:

Readily colonises disturbed and bare soils, useful for reclamation. Attractive, graceful ornamental, easily grown. Foliage suitable for cut flower arrangements.