A striking silver-grey, cushion-like shrub with small almost invisible flowers.  The foliage has the most delicious texture to touch – it is not prickly as you might think on first glance. Instead it is soft and sort of spongy.

Anyone who has seen my gardens will know that I love the contrast you can achieve with this stunning silver plant. All of the photos from my garden here show how you can contrast it against bright colours, strappy/grassy foliage or flowers like kangaroo paw. Large leaved plants are also fun to plant next to this silver beauty.

It is ideal for coastal gardens too as it handles wind and salt spray. It is also hardy, making it great for that neglected garden at the front of the house or your low growing native verge.

Prefers sandy, well-drained soils in full sun. Drought and salt-tolerant once established. Minimal care required, but can be pruned to shape if necessary – just don’t cut back into the twiggy foliage as it will not recover. Light regular pruning is better to keep the shape you desire.

Can be difficult to maintain in flooding rains without sandy soil and excellent drainage.