ORTHROSANTHUS laxus

Clumping perennial with broad strap-like leaves 45 cm long and attractive pale mauve flowers that form in loose spikes from August to November.

Occurs naturally in the South-West Province of Western Australia in the regions of Avon Wheatbelt, Esperance Plains, Geraldton Sandplains, Jarrah Forest, Swan Coastal Plain, and Warren.

Prefers well-composted moist soil in a protected sunny position. Drought and frost tender.

Grow notes:

Seed is usually best sown in spring or autumn in temperate climates, avoiding the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination of this genus is around 18-22°C

Pre-treatment of smoke is recommended for this species.
Research has shown that many members of this genus are responsive to the pre-treatment of smoke. Although germination may occur without smoke treatment it has proved to be beneficial in reducing the number of days to germination and increasing germination rates of this species.

Smoke treatments are simple and can be undertaken either by soaking the seed overnight or by applying it to the surface after sowing, both provide good results. Smoke treatments are available by clicking here.

1. Sow seed on the surface of a porous seed-raising mix.
2. Sprinkle a very light covering of the seed-raising mix over the seed.
3. Water with a fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
4. Place in a warm shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid dying out.
5. Keep warm & moist, and avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
6. Germination generally occurs in around 14-28 days in the right conditions.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.