Ptilotus

( TILE - ote - uss )

At-A-Glance Information

Commonly called Mulla Mulla, Foxtails, Lamb's Tails or Pussy Tails, this Australian genus of annuals and perennials needs full sun and little to moderate water to perform well. These plants bloom profusely, with flower heads shaped a bit like feather dusters. They reach about 18 inches tall and have reddish stems supporting the flower clusters. There are many species and cultivars bred for growing in the garden, and 

Ptilotus Species and Varietals

The genus Ptilotus is a member of the plant family Amaranthaceae and includes around 120 species. Mulla Mulla grows best in zones 13-17 and 19-24. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Ptilotus exaltatus (Pink Mulla Mulla)
This species is divided into perennial and annual types, both with silvery foliage. Varieties in the Joey Strain (pictured) are annuals, prefer acidic soil, grow to 12-15 inches tall and a little less wide, and have pink flowers. It is grown from seed, so it will vary a bit in characteristics. On the other hand, perennial variety 'Platinum Wallaby' likes alkaline soil, is 18 inches tall and wide, and is grown from cuttings. It has pinkish blue flowers.

Ptilotus latifolius (Tangled Mulla Mulla)
This perennial grows naturally in sand dunes and in stony plains, and takes a shrubby form. Small white flowers bloom in clusters, and have pink tips when newly blossomed. 

Ptilotus nobilis (Yellow Tails)
This short-lived perennial to annual variety grows to 12-18 inches tall and wide, with sparse leaves and white flowers. They are great filler plant for dry areas of the garden, and produce whitish-green blossoms. Cultivars include 'Passion' (an upright grower with purple flowerheads), 'Poise' (with two-toned tan and pink flowers), and 'Purity' (with greenish-yellow blooms).

Ptilotus polystachyus (Prince of Wales Feather)
These plants reach between 40 and 60 inches tall when mature and in bloom, and produce terminal inflorescences of greenish-brown flowers. 

Caring for Ptilotus

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: List of Ptilotus Species
Wikipedia: Ptilotus
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 539, Ptilotus
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
​