Botanical name:

Aciphylla crosby-smithii

Common name(s):

About:

Native to the southern Fiordland, this species is robust and characterised by elongated tufts of broad, spiky leaves. It produces white flowers in a ball shape, perched on long, fleshy stalks. Similar to A. congesta, it thrives in moisture-retentive soil.

Natural habitat:

Exposed rocky slopes and short snow tussock herb-fields from 1400-1600m.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

South Island; southern Fiordland (possibly also in western Otago and elsewhere in Fiordland)

Height: 2m

Flowering:

December – February with a cream/white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

February - May

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Wetlands.

How to grow:

Propagation is usually by seed, although cuttings can be taken from some smaller species.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.