Much-branched, shrublet, woody at the base, up to 1m. Leaves fleshy, filiform and needle-like in tufts; bears radiate flowerheads on wiry flower stalks with blue to mauve rays and a yellow disc; the involucral bracts are in 3 or 4 series, Seedheads are fluffy and creamy-white in colour. Attracts butterflies and numerous insects when in flower; an attractive garden plant.