This native of eastern Australia has graceful, 1 ft. (30 cm) long, arching foliage making it an ideal mixer for a large arrangement. The leaves are bronze to dark green, ferny, and covered on the underside with silky hairs, hence the common name, silky oak.

As a young plant it makes a good subject for a table centerpiece, quickly growing to 1 ft. (30 cm) in its first year; after 4—5 years it may be up to 6 ft. (2 m), making it more useful in a conservatory or on a large porch.

Size: Height to 6% ft. (2 m).

Light: Direct sunlight, except at noon in summer.

Temperature: Tolerates a wide range; winter minimum 65°F (18°C).

Moisture: Keep moist from spring to fall, barely moist in winter.

Feeding: Apply standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks in spring and summer.

Propagation: Sow seed in spring or summer in an acidic, peat moss-enriched soil. Position in a bright spot, out of direct sun, at a temperature of 55—60°F (12—15°C).

Special needs: The leaves tend to lose their ferny appearance as the plant ages, so it may be better to start again with a young plant after 5—4 years.