Botanical name: Calocephalus brownii, Leucophyta brownii
Other names: silver wire, barbed wire plant, ghost shrub, bonanza grass, silver basket, lattice herb, silver thread
Use: autumn plant, structural plant, for containers, borders, balconies, terraces or grave planting, decorative plants in the house
Origin: Australia
Flower: yellow Flowers only bloom in the second year after frost-free overwintering Leaves
: needle-shaped, coral-like leaves, branched growing
Leave color: silver, variegated (yellow, blue, green, purple, red, orange)
Special features:The structure plant is partially sprayed with paint and thus brings atmosphere to the garden and balcony. Without pruning, the growth is compact and the shape spherical.

The plant has many different German names, all related to the distinctive shape. With its silvery appearance, the autumn plant provides that special something in borders, on the balcony, in beds, on graves or in bowls and containers. As a loosening up between heather, gentian and chrysanthemums, the elegant species blends in well in autumn and loosens up the plantings. But the barbed wire also looks great in elegant combinations with white or green. True to its origins, the fall flower is not hardy, but is visually appealing throughout the winter. If frost-free overwintering, the species can survive for several years and then bloom in late summer. Barbed wire is also gladly cut off and inWreaths processed in autumn and winter or used for Christmas decorations.

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In which location does Calocephalus brownii feel most comfortable

The structure plant prefers a sunny and warm spot in the garden. The plant does not grow as well in a partially shaded location, but it is possible to combine it with other plants here. Plant the special feature from August on mild days and enjoy the attractive shape in autumn. The barbed wire plant is not hardy, but can stay outdoors until spring because the low temperatures do not affect the appearance. If you want to enjoy the species for several years, planting in a bucket is an option. Make sure that the container is in a bright place from November to April at temperatures of 5 to 10 degrees Celsius and that it never dries out completely, even in the cold season.

Our gardening tip: planted in the garden, the species is not hardy. Moisture and low temperatures are usually responsible for the fact that the autumn plant dies. Nevertheless, you can leave the plant in the garden and protect it with some foliage in winter. The barbed wire survives mild winters and the distinctive shape is a feast for the eyes for a long time.

How do I plant silver baskets?

Calocephalus can be planted on the balcony and in the garden in autumn. With sufficient moisture and warmth, the plant grows quickly and enriches any planting with its appearance. The autumn plant is a feast for the eyes until the first frost and can set shiny accents with a growth height of 15 to 30 cm. If you only want the beautiful autumn plant in one container on the balcony or terrace, we recommend repotting it into a larger onebucket, as the original culture pot is usually heavily rooted and maintenance is difficult. Use structurally stable potting soil for planting and add a layer of expanded clay to the bottom of the pot for drainage. Make sure that you only use containers that have a water drainage hole.

How do I care for and water my lattice weed properly

Immediately after planting, ensure an even water supply. It is important that there is never waterlogging, as the roots are sensitive to it. However, the balcony box, the bed or the pot must not dry out completely either. The annual plant is undemanding, but due to its exotic shape it is often the case that watering is forgotten because, unlike other plants, you never see that the plant wilts. Nevertheless, occasional watering is necessary even in winter. You do not have to fertilize unless you cultivate the plant all year round and overwinter the vessel. APruning is not necessary with barbed wire, as it naturally grows very bushy and compact. However, if the plant is too tall, it can be cut without any problems.

Our care tip: Even in late summer, the sun can be strong and the plants evaporate water through the leaves. It is therefore important that you regularly check whether the soil is still moist. In sunny locations, watering once or twice a week is necessary.

What pests and diseases can Calocephalus brownii get

Barbed wire is sturdy and not susceptible to pests and diseases. Problems can arise from a place that is too damp and incorrect care.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about silver wire

What is suitable for the combination?

All classic autumn plants that are used for bowls and boxes such as e.g. B:

• Common heather (Calluna vulgaris)
• Autumn chrysanthemums
• Partridge berries (Gaultheria)
• cyclamen
• Mühlenbeckia
• gentian
• grasses
• sedum
• Autumn Anemones
• Tawny Asters
• Smooth-Leaf Asters

The structural plants can also be combined with hardy plants or evergreen plants. An enchanting and autumnal balcony can easily be designed. As a potted plant in the house, the silver wire is comparable to a dried flower in terms of durability. Fascinating arrangements can be created with the autumn plants without special requirements. In combination with cones and much more, an atmospheric decoration is quickly and easily created.

How does the barbed wire plant propagate?

The autumn flowers are mainly propagated by cuttings. Cut off approx. 3 cm long shoot tips and put them in a container with potting soil. Cultivation sets with a cover are well suited. Here the humidity is optimal and the formation of the roots takes place within a few weeks. By propagating cuttings, you can enjoy the balcony plant again next year. Transplanting into larger pots with quality substrate is necessary by summer. Propagation by seeds is also possible.

When does it flower?

Silver baskets usually flower in the second year. Planted in the ground in the garden you will rarely have flowering specimens. Only after frost-free hibernation do small grape-like inflorescences appear on the balcony plants. The flowers measure approx. 1 cm in diameter, the color of the buds is silvery and the flowers are yellow.

Are the plants poisonous?

There are no known toxicity data.

How do I care for the brightly colored Calocephalus?

The requirements for care are identical for colored specimens. The color allows autumnal vessels to be planted. In combination with red-brown grass, yellow chrysanthemums and the red berries of the partridge berry, colorful and atmospheric plantings can be created quickly. Depending on the variety, you can leave the bowls and boxes on the patio or balcony all winter.