The Xanthosia genus is endemic to Australia and is comprised of around 20 species, most of which are unknown to cultivation. Xanthosia rotundifolia has captured the attention of native plant lovers because of the shape of the flowers which resembles the Southern Cross which has significant cultural significance for Australians.

For our northern hemisphere readers, the Southern Cross is the celestial constellation that is most in evidence in our southern skies and it appears on the Australian flag (and also on that of New Zealand). The Southern Cross flag is different again. This flag was first raised at the Eureka Stockade, a momentous event in Australian history, that set the colonies on the path to democracy and was the closest this relaxed and peaceful country has ever come to civil war. (Those interested in the flag can visit http://www.ausflag.com.au/flags/images/eureka.pdf)

The Southern Cross flag features the white southern cross joined with white bands on a blue background. It is this representation of the Southern Cross that the flower most resembles and it would make an interesting national floral emblem, except that that honour has already been bestowed on the Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha).

Xanthosia rotundifolia is a soft-wooded, evergreen perennial which is native to Western Australia. It grows to about 30cm high and can spread to more than 1m wide. The foliage is bright green and toothed. The true flowers are tiny and white with a hint of pink and are contained within white star-like bracts borne at the ends of four stalks in the shape of a cross. The main flowering is in spring, but scattered flowers appear over a long period during the warmer months.

Southern Cross thrives a moist but well-drained, sandy soil in a semi-shaded position. It is moderately frost resistant. A delightful addition to the garden, it sits well with both native and exotic species, however you will probably not find this plant in a mainstream nursery. Enquire at specialist native plant nurseries.