Common Dampiera

An erect shrub, Dampiera linearis grows to between 15 and 60 cm (6 in–2 ft) in height, with a suckering habit. New growth is hairy and becomes smooth with maturity. The leaves are obovate to elliptical and can be entire or lobed, measuring 1–4 cm long by 1–10 mm wide. It produces flowers between July and December in its native range. These are 1.5–2 cm wide, and light blue to purple with a yellow or white centre. The outer- or undersurface of the flowers is covered with fine hair. The flowers arise in groups of 1 to 3 from a peduncle that is also covered in hair.

Dampiera linearis is found across the southwest corner of Western Australia from Geraldton in the north to Esperance in the south east. It grows on sand- or clay-based soils over laterite, on ridges, or flat areas.

Plants of Dampiera linearis can survive bushfire and resprout and put on new growth quickly. Fieldwork on the Swan Coastal Plain indicated it was probably resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi.

Some forms of Dampiera linearis are cultivated and sold for their colourful flowers, while others have attractive grey foliage. In cultivation, the species prefers a well-drained situation in full sun or light shade. It tolerates some dryness and moderate frost. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils. It makes an attractive plant for hanging baskets. Dampiera linearis is readily propagated by cuttings; trials at Kings Park indicate that semi-hardened material is best and the average time to strike is 48 days.

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