The Daisy Study Group is one of over 20 such groups whose aims are to further knowledge about the cultivation, propagation and conservation of Australian plants. The group was formed in 1981 under the leadership of Maureen Schaumann and has been working to identify, collect, research, propagate, grow and dry Australian daisies, and in every way to test them for horticultural potential and practical use.

Three excellent publications have been produced by the group. The first, Australian Daisies for gardens and floral art, was published by Lothian in 1987. It describes and illustrates over 150 plants, with notes on their flowering periods, propagation, cultivation, uses and habitat. It is now out of print.

The second, Australian Brachyscomes, was published in 1995 and documents 74 species, a number of varieties, distinctive forms and cultivars of brachyscomes. It also details the habit, propagation and cultivation requirements of each species and features over 100 precise and beautifully executed line drawings by botanical artist Gloria Thomlinson. Some of these drawings, which illustrate the fruit of each species, are invaluable for correct identification. The book is an excellent reference for the keen native plant grower, for horticulturists, naturalists, conservationists and land managers. It is available through the Study Group and regional Australian Plant Societies.

The Group's most recent publication, Everlasting Daisies of Australia, aims to encourage the appreciation of these Australian daisies and to develop techniques for germinating and growing them. The book, which was published in June 2002, has chapters on growing, propagation, floral arrangements, floriculture, reproduction and hybridization. Detailed species' descriptions are written in easy-to-understand language and illustrated with beautiful colour photographs. For each individual species there are sections on flowering period, propagation, cultivation and uses, distribution and habitat, and similar species. It is a comprehensive guide that will assist home gardeners, commercial growers, students of horticulture, amateur naturalists and visitors to wildflower areas throughout the continent. The book is published by C.H. Jerram & Associates and retails for $49.95.

The Group also publishes three informative newsletters per year documenting reports from members about all aspects of growing daisies, and other articles of botanical, horticultural or conservation interest.

There are ten general meetings per year, and at least two group excursions. In addition individual members often make private trips far and wide across Australia for the purpose of collecting (with permission), photographing, observing and recording daisies.

The group maintains two extensive seed banks, one for provenance seed and one for seed of garden origin, and seed is available to members free of charge.