Microseris lanceolata – Yam Daisy

A variable species found in southern Australia, it looks very similar to dandelions, even having a fluffy seed head which is dispersed by wind. It has a rosette of toothed long and narrow leaves, yellow flowers from spring to autumn, and edible tuberous roots. The roots are roasted before eating, and can also be eaten raw. The plant is quick growing, and likes full sun to part shade. Will do well in most soil types, and while it is drought and frost tolerant,  good care will ensure better growth.
Propagation is by seed, which germinate in a couple of weeks, old seed (over 6 months old) has a much lower germination rate. Sow in autumn to early winter, as hot weather limits germination, and sow on the soil surface as darkness limits germination. A small sprinkle of sand or seed raising mix over the top of the seed will help it not be blown away. Alternatively, push seed down into soil with the fluffy top (the pappus) exposed on the soil surface. Keep moist until germination.

Family:Asteraceae
Scientific Name:Microseris lanceolata
Common Name:Yam Daisy
Other Common Names:Murnong
Plant Type:Bulb or bulb-like
Height:0.2 ~ 0.5 metres
Width:0.2 ~ 0.3 metres
Flower Colour:Yellow
Flowering Time:Spring, Summer, Autumn
Ph Level:Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil Type:Sandy, Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Potting mix
Plant Environment:Low maintenance garden, Courtyard, Container growing, Cottage garden, Flower garden, Drought resistant, Wildflower meadow
Climate Zone:Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean, Cool, Semi-arid
Light:Sunny, Light shade
Lifespan:Biennial, Perennial
Soil Moisture:Dry, Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage
Propagation Method:Seed
Frost Tolerance:Tolerates light frost
Plant Usage:Feature plant, Border plant
Special Features:Edible, Erosion control, Fast growing, Playground friendly
Attracts Wildlife:Bees, Butterflies, Other insects

The information provided on the Gardening With Angus website is provided for general educational purposes about a variety of Australian plants. We recommend you seek further advice from qualified professionals regarding your own individual circumstances.  Further disclaimer information>>


WHERE TO GET YOUR PLANT

Once you have found the plant that looks right for you, the next step is where to buy it.
Most nurseries stock a good range of plants, but due to space and supplies, they may not always have the plant that you are searching for in stock. If they don’t, they may be able to order it in for you if you request it.
Specialist nurseries are also able to give great advice, and if they don’t have the plant you have planned on, they can often suggest alternatives that will also work well for you.
Below is a list of our favourite specialist nurseries. Click on the links for their details-

 

The Wildflower Place Erina – NSW 

 

Newcastle Wildflower Nursery – NSW

 

IndigiGrow- Sydney- NSW

 

Harvest Seeds And Native Plant Nursery – Sydney – NSW

 

Native Grace Nursery – Robertson NSW

 

Wariapendi Nursery – Colo Vale NSW

 

Sydney Wildflower Nursery – NSW

 

Cool Country Natives – ACT

 

Geelong Native Plants – Victoria

 

Wimmera Native Nursery – Victoria

 

Forest Heart eco-Nursery – Maleny Queensland

 

Natives R Us – Traveston – Queensland 

 

Zanthorrea Nursery – Perth WA

 

Manuka Native Nursery – South Australia

 

MAIL ORDER NURSERIES –

 

The Native Shop – mail order

 

Plants In A Box

 


 

 

Angus recommends Bush Tucker fertiliser for native plants.