Lasiopetalum ferrugineum, commonly known as Rusty Velvet-bush, is a shrub native to the understory of sclerophyll forests and heathlands in eastern Australia, including southeast Queensland, eastern New South Wales, and far-eastern Victoria. This plant typically grows up to 3.3 feet high and can spread 3.3 to 9.8 feet wide. It has a distinctive appearance with leaves that have prominent veins and are covered with rusty hairs, especially on new growth. The Rusty Velvet-bush blooms from September to November, producing crowded cymes of small, whitish flowers with reddish-brown petals and anthers that are subtly attractive rather than showy.

The Rusty Velvet-bush is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its unique velvety foliage and its ability to thrive in part-shade, making it suitable for garden cultivation in shaded borders or as an understory plant. It prefers sandy soils and requires well-drained conditions to flourish. While it is not a high-maintenance plant, it benefits from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser growth. It is not commonly associated with serious diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering. Gardeners should be aware that it may not tolerate heavy frosts.CC BY-SA 4.0