Actinotus helianthi or the Flannel Flower is a lovely native flower that looks a bit like a floppy daisy but has soft creamy flowers that feel like felt.
The foliage is also soft and felt-like, grey/green in colour and crinkled in appearance making them an good source of interest when not in bloom. The unusual texture helps it reduce moisture loss in dry conditions.
This is one of Australia's most delightful native flowers and should therefore perhaps be more common in gardens.
It goes very well in traditional 'cottage garden' plantings and makes a good cut flower.
It is sometimes called the 'Sydney Flannel Flower' as it is found most commonly in and around Sydney.