Ptilotus exaltatus, commonly known as the Pink Mulla Mulla, is a versatile plant that can be grown as both a perennial and an annual, depending on the climate and growing conditions. In its native habitat, which includes regions with warm climates such as Australia, Ptilotus exaltatus is a perennial plant that can thrive year after year. However, in cooler areas where temperatures drop below freezing, it is often treated as an annual.
In hardiness zones 10-11, where the temperatures remain mild throughout the year, Ptilotus exaltatus can be grown as a perennial. This means that it will continue to grow and flower year after year, providing a beautiful and long-lasting addition to the garden. As a perennial, Ptilotus exaltatus can be propagated by both root cuttings and seeds.
Root cuttings are a common method of propagating Ptilotus exaltatus as perennials. To propagate through root cuttings, select healthy and mature plants to ensure successful root formation. Carefully dig up a portion of the plant’s root system, making sure to include several roots. Cut the roots into sections, each containing at least one bud. Plant the root cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the buds are facing upwards. Keep the soil moist and provide the cuttings with bright, indirect light. With proper care, the cuttings should develop new roots and grow into new Ptilotus exaltatus plants.
Alternatively, Ptilotus exaltatus can also be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide the seeds with bright, indirect light. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks, and once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
In cooler areas where Ptilotus exaltatus is treated as an annual, it is typically grown from seed. The plants will grow, flower, and set seed within a single growing season before dying off in colder temperatures. While this may seem like a shorter lifespan compared to perennial growth, it still offers an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Ptilotus exaltatus in the garden for a season.
Personally, I have grown Ptilotus exaltatus both as a perennial and an annual, depending on my location and the specific growing conditions. In my experience, when grown as a perennial in a suitable climate, Ptilotus exaltatus can become a stunning and long-lasting addition to the garden, with its vibrant pink flowers and unique foliage. As an annual, it can provide a burst of color and interest for a single season, perfect for adding variety to the garden or filling in gaps between other plants.
Ptilotus exaltatus can be either a perennial or an annual, depending on the climate and growing conditions. In warmer areas, it can be grown as a perennial, while in cooler regions, it is often treated as an annual. Whether propagated through root cuttings or seeds, Ptilotus exaltatus offers gardeners the opportunity to enjoy its beauty and unique characteristics in various ways.
