Billy Balls Seeds

Craspedia globosa (Billy Balls / Drumstick Flower) Seeds

Billy Balls, also called Billy Buttons, Drumstick Flowers, or Woollyheads, are striking ornamentals in the daisy family.

 

Their globular, tennis ball like blooms are long lasting and highly decorative, making them a favourite for florists and modern garden design.

 

They form rosettes of narrow, silvery green leaves at the base, from which rise tall, wiry stems topped with 3 cm diameter golden yellow spheres.

 

These blooms are not only eye catching in the garden but also dry exceptionally well, retaining their colour and form for months.

 

Seed Qty Approx 0.1 grams

 

Sow February to April indoors, or May outdoors after frost

Germination 14 to 21 days at 18–21°C

Soil and Position Well drained, sandy soil in full sun. Tolerates poor soils and drought once established

Height/Spread 60 to 90 cm tall, 20 to 30 cm spread

Flowering July to October (earlier in warm climates)

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Sow seeds on the surface of moist compost and cover lightly with vermiculite. Keep at 18–21°C until germination. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle. Harden off and plant outdoors after the last frost, spacing 25–30 cm apart.

 

Grow and Maintenance

 

Craspedia thrives in sunny, dry conditions and is drought tolerant once established. Avoid heavy, wet soils. Deadhead to encourage more blooms. In mild regions, plants may overwinter with protection, but they are usually grown as annuals in the UK.

 

Uses and Benefits

 

Distinctive spherical yellow blooms on tall stems

Excellent for fresh and dried flower arrangements

Long vase life and retains colour when dried

Tolerant of drought and poor soils

Adds architectural interest to borders and cutting gardens