This variable shrub has a open upright or prostrate habit in exposed coastal positions. The slender woody branches are covered in dark green narrow-oblong leaves and the greenish cup-shaped flowers appear in a pendant cluster during late spring.  

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Lasiopetalum ferrugineum var. ferrugineum is naturally found in Australia growing from south-eastern Queensland to New South Wales and extending to Victoria appearing on the coast in heath and in open woodlands, on the mountains to the western slopes. 

It prefers a well drained moderately fertile sandy-stony soil in a sunny protected position with some mid-day shade and is drought and light frost tolerant.

Rusty-petals is grown for its foliage and its variable growth habit. It is planted in parks and gardens along borders for screening.The prostrate form is used as a ground cover in coastal regions and establishes in 2 to 4 years. It may be planted in commercial sites or in mountain woodland settings. ID 536

Lasiopetalum (las-ee-o-PET-ah-lum) ferrugineum (fer-roo-gin-AY-um)

Malvaceae (mal-VAY-see-ee)
Cotton, Mallows and Hollyhocks