Platysace, Genus, linearifolia, Species,
- Genus & species
carrot tops
Overview
Platysace linearifolia is a small wiry shrub in the Apiaceae family growing 12-40 inches (30-100 cm) tall with a slender, upright to spreading habit. The narrow linear leaves are 0.4-1.6 inches (1-4 cm) long and about 0.04 inch (1 mm) wide, crowded along the wiry stems. Small white flowers are grouped in compound umbels 0.6-1.2 inches (1.5-3 cm) across, held on slender stalks above the foliage from spring through summer. The flowers are followed by small dry two-part fruit typical of the carrot family. Growth is slow to moderate, and the plant resprouts from a woody rootstock after fire. The narrow leaves and open form give a sparse appearance year-round. The species grows on shallow sandstone-derived soils and tolerates low fertility and drought, but is short-lived on heavy, poorly drained soils.
Native Range
Native to southeastern Australia, mainly in New South Wales with extensions into Queensland and Victoria. Grows in heathland and dry sclerophyll woodland on shallow, sandy soils derived from sandstone.Suggested Uses
Planted in native gardens, rockeries, and low-water plantings on sandy soils, spaced 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) apart. The white umbels draw native bees and other insects. The open, wiry habit suits informal plantings rather than clipped borders.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 3'4"
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in full sun on shallow, free-draining sandy soil of low fertility. Water sparingly while establishing; mature plants tolerate extended dry periods and decline in soils that stay wet. The woody rootstock resprouts after fire or hard cutting. Few pests affect it in open, airy positions. Heavy clay and rich, moist soils shorten the plant life.Pruning
Light tip pruning after flowering keeps the wiry stems dense and slows legginess. The rootstock resprouts after cutting close to the ground in late winter. Spent umbels can be removed by hand or left to set seed.Pruning Schedule
Prune: February–March
summerfall
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons
