Thomasia petalocalyx
STERICULIACEAE
Paper Flower
Found in the drier parts of southern SA, VIC & WA. Shrub or ground cover, 80 to 160 cm. Flowers most of the year particularly Spring.
Pink or mauve flowers with 5 petals, 1cm across on drooping stalks, cupped starlike.
Oblong shaped, soft green leaves, hairy or rough to the touch, slightly toothed edges often rolling under, prominent mid vein, 2 to 4 cm long, with 2 large leaf extensions in the junction of leaves & stem.
Seeds are held in a three celled capsule, splitting when ripe to release small black seeds. The empty capsule remains on the plant a long time.
Found in well drained woodlands in lime, loam, sandy & rocky soils, acid to neutral soils. Drought tolerant.
Maybe propagated from cuttings or seed, but germination percentage is low. Pruning mature plants is beneficial.