Spyridium scortechinii, commonly known as Cotton Bush, is an evergreen shrub native to the dry sclerophyll forests and coastal scrubs of New South Wales and Victoria in Australia. It typically grows to a height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). The plant is characterized by its small, rounded form and dense foliage, which is covered in tiny hairs giving it a cottony texture. The leaves are small, green, and leathery, adapted to the dry conditions of its native habitat. Cotton Bush produces clusters of small, white flowers that are surrounded by showy, white bracts, which can be quite ornamental. These flowers appear in winter and spring, adding interest to the garden during these seasons.

Cotton Bush is valued for its drought tolerance and the textural contrast its foliage provides in the landscape. It is suitable for use in rockeries, native plant gardens, and as a low hedge or informal screen. This shrub thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. While it requires medium amounts of water, once established, it can withstand dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and may require protection from frost in cooler climates.CC BY-SA 4.0