Trachymene coerulea, commonly known as Blue Lace Flower or Wild Parsnip, is a beautiful annual or biennial herb native to Western Australia. This plant is renowned for its stunning blue to lavender flower clusters and is a popular choice in both native and ornamental gardens! Trachymene coerulea truly is a lovely addition to gardens, especially wildflower beds or native plant displays, providing striking colour and texture. Its low-maintenance, drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators make it an excellent choice for a native Australian garden. It is also commonly used as a cut flower due to its delicate beauty and long-lasting blooms.

Trachymene coerulea is a small, herbaceous plant that typically grows to about 30–60 cm in height. Its leaves are deeply divided, with a feathery or lace-like appearance, adding to its ornamental appeal. The flowers are the main attraction, forming dense, rounded umbels (clusters) of small, delicate flowers that range from pale blue to lavender. Each flower cluster can measure around 5–10 cm in diameter, resembling a delicate lace pattern. The plant blooms mainly in spring and early summer and can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Distribution

This species is native to the south-west of Western Australia, commonly found in sandy, well-drained soils across coastal plains and inland scrublands. It’s well-adapted to regions with a Mediterranean climate, where winters are wet and summers are dry.

Growing Trachymene coerulea from Seed:

Growing Trachymene coerulea from seeds is relatively simple, and the plant’s ease of growth makes it a great choice for gardeners who enjoy native Australian plants. Here’s a guide on how to grow it from seed:

1. Seed Collection: The seeds are small and produced after flowering, typically by late summer. Wait until the seed heads are dry before collecting, then store them in a cool, dry place until planting. We have done that for you!
2. Sowing: Blue Lace Flower seeds can be sown directly into garden beds or started in seed trays. Use a well-draining seed-raising mix and sprinkle the seeds lightly over the soil surface. Cover them with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite, as they don’t need to be deeply buried.
3. Positioning: Choose a bright, sunny location for germination and growth, as Trachymene coerulea thrives in full sun.
4. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not overly wet, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal issues. Regular, light watering is best until the seedlings are established.
5. Germination: Seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks under ideal conditions. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to prevent overcrowding or transplant them into larger pots if started in trays.
6. Transplanting: If started in seed trays, transplant the seedlings when they are about 5–10 cm tall. Space them about 20–30 cm apart in the garden to allow for good air circulation and healthy growth.
7. Final Planting and Maintenance: Trachymene coerulea prefers well-draining soils, ideally sandy or slightly gravelly, similar to its natural habitat. It is drought-tolerant once established, requiring only minimal watering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and keep the plant looking tidy.

Picture by Calistemon, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons