Dunedin Daisy Brachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox'
ABOUT
The 'Basil Fox' is a striking plant with a lush, bushy appearance. Its foliage consists of silver-gray leaves that are slightly wrinkly in texture, adding a unique tactile quality. These leaves provide a striking contrast when set against the brighter greenery commonly found in gardens. Each leaf is broadly oval in shape, often with irregular edges and a somewhat leathery feel, which also gives the plant a robust and hearty look. Throughout its blooming season, the 'Basil Fox' produces cheerful yellow flowers that cluster together in flat-topped groupings, offering a vibrant splash of color. These daisy-like flowers are comprised of a central disc surrounded by narrow petals that extend outward, creating a classic floral display that is both eye-catching and delightful. The contrast between the yellow blooms and the silver-gray foliage creates a visual appeal that can brighten up any garden setting. Overall, the 'Basil Fox' has a rounded and dense habit, presenting itself as a full-bodied shrub with a pleasing aesthetic balance between its foliage and flowers. It is a cultivar recognized not only for its beauty but also for its resilience, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of enduring charm to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Basil Fox Ragwort
Common names
Brachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox'.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited information available on the 'Basil Fox' specifically. In general, Brachyglottis species are not commonly regarded as toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it is possible that some individuals could experience an adverse reaction due to allergies or sensitivity. If the 'Basil Fox' is indeed toxic and someone ingests part of the plant, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If any part of the plant is ingested and symptoms appear, it is important to seek medical attention.
To pets
Similar to the information for humans, there is limited specific information about the toxicity of the 'Basil Fox' to pets. Generally, Brachyglottis species are not well-known for being toxic to animals. However, pet owners should always exercise caution and prevent pets from ingesting plants. If a pet does ingest part of the 'Basil Fox' and it happens to be toxic, the pet could potentially exhibit symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, or more severe reactions depending on the level of toxicity and the amount ingested. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Spread
5 feet [1.52 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Brachyglottis 'Basil Fox' has silver-gray leaves that add a unique texture and color to garden spaces.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it suitable for dry climates or water-conservative gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It requires little pruning or care once it has established, ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Pest Resistance: The plant is typically resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated through cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Wildlife Attraction: The plant may attract beneficial insects that assist in pollination and natural pest control.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sunscreen Development: The leaves of the Brachyglottis (syn. Senecio) 'Basil Fox' may contain compounds that could potentially be used in the development of natural sunscreen products.
- Insect Repellent: Natural oils from the 'Basil Fox' leaves might be useful for repelling certain types of insects when applied or emitted in an environment.
- Natural Dye: The pigments found in the leaves and flowers could be used to produce a natural dye for textiles or crafts.
- Education and Research: As an example of dentate leave margins, it can be used for educational purposes in botany and plant morphology studies.
- Artistic Inspiration: The unique form and foliage of the plant make it an interesting subject for botanical illustrators and artists.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not traditionally edible, the leaves could serve as a non-toxic garnish for plating in haute cuisine, especially if grown organically.
- Garden Plant Combinations: Its distinctive foliage texture can be used for creating aesthetic contrast when planted alongside other garden species with different leaf shapes and textures.
- Photography: 'Basil Fox' presents a unique opportunity for photographers due to its silvery foliage and texture, especially in macro photography.
- Cultural Significance: Could be incorporated into cultural events or ceremonies that require the use of hearty, drought-resistant plants as symbols of endurance or survival.
- Green Roofing: Its low maintenance and drought-resistant nature make it a candidate for inclusion in green roofing projects where vegetation is incorporated into building design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Brachyglottis is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Brachyglottis is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Brachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox', commonly known as shrubby tororaro, typically grows in challenging environments and is known for its ability to withstand tough conditions, representing perseverance and the ability to thrive despite adversity.
- Adaptability: The ability of shrubby tororaro to adapt to different soil types and aspects speak to its symbolic meaning of adaptability, reflecting flexibility and the capacity to adjust to various circumstances in life.
- Protection: With its dense foliage, shrubby tororaro can serve as shelter for smaller creatures, symbolizing protection and care for those in need of a safe haven.
- Renewal: Like many plants, shrubby tororaro exhibits growth patterns that can symbolize renewal and new beginnings, highlighting the potential for personal growth and transformation.
WaterBrachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox', commonly known as shrubby ragwort, requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, but then allowed to dry out between waterings. Depending on the climate and season, this might translate to watering once every 1-2 weeks, with about 1-2 gallons per session for an established outdoor plant. During hot, dry periods, the frequency should increase slightly, whereas in cooler conditions or when it's less sunny, it should decrease. Overwatering can be detrimental, leading to root rot, so ensure good drainage and check the soil moisture before watering.
LightShrubby ragwort thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a location where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid deep shade, as this will impair the plant's growth and flowering. The ideal spot would be one that enjoys the morning sun, which is less intense, and has some protection during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureThe shrubby ragwort prefers temperate climates and can typically withstand temperatures between 30°F and 90°F. Frost can damage the plant, so it's ideal to avoid temperatures below freezing. The best growing condition is within the temperature range of 50°F to 75°F, where the plant will grow and flower optimally.
PruningPruning the shrubby ragwort helps to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or damaged branches. It should be pruned in the late fall or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back up to one-third of the old growth to keep the plant vigorous. Pruning right after flowering will allow time for new buds to form for the next flowering season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Brachyglottis (Senecio) 'Basil Fox' is well-draining, with a mix of loam, peat, perlite, or sand to ensure good aeration and drainage. Maintain soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingBrachyglottis 'Basil Fox' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when you observe that it has outgrown its current pot.
Humidity & MistingBrachyglottis 'Basil Fox' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the drier conditions often found indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil with partial sun.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleBrachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox', also known as 'Basil Fox' ragwort, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, grows into a small seedling. The seedling then develops a root system and foliage as it becomes an established juvenile plant. In maturity, 'Basil Fox' produces gray-green leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowers during its blooming season, typically in the summer months. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruits that contain seeds, which are dispersed by various means, including wind and animals. The plant continues to grow and spread, often through vegetative means such as cuttings or division in addition to seed production. Over time, it will reach senescence, where growth slows and the plant eventually dies, completing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Brachyglottis 'Sunshine', commonly referred to by this name rather than Brachyglottis bidwillii 'Basil Fox', is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is most successfully carried out during the late summer months when the plant’s growth begins to slow and the stems are mature enough but not yet fully hardened. To propagate Brachyglottis 'Sunshine', a grower should select a healthy portion of semi-hardwood, which is a section of the stem that is not the newest growth but has also not become old and tough. Cuttings should be around 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long with leaves removed from the lower half. The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged until roots have developed and new growth is evident, which indicates successful propagation.
