Woolly Ray Flower (Dasymalla terminalis)

Woolly Ray Flower

Dasymalla terminalis

Soft woolly foliage contrasts with delicate purple blooms. Evergreen shrub; common name: Woolly Ray Flower.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates mild afternoon shade in hot, arid climates to prevent foliage scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates light frost down to 5°C; performs best in warm temperate to Mediterranean climate conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval, densely covered in silvery-white woolly hairs
  • Flower: Tubular purple to pale violet blooms, clustered at stem terminals
  • Stem: Woody, covered in fine white pubescence
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth

Fertilization

Diluted low-nitrogen organic feed once monthly. Use diluted feed to avoid burning shallow, fibrous roots

Eggshell powder top-dress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the base every 3 months to boost soil calcium content and improve drainage
Pruning
  • Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain a compact, rounded shape
  • Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Thin dense inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: No known toxicity to cats per ASPCA guidelines

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; attracts native pollinators including bees and butterflies