Botanical name:

Aciphylla dobsonii

Common name(s):

Dobson’s speargrass

About:

This Aciphylla species is native to the alpine areas of southern Canterbury and northern Otago. It forms a compact, rounded cushion with stiff leaves, marked by bright yellow margins and veins. In summer, globular flower-heads appear on short, sturdy stems. This plant is a specialist species and can be challenging to cultivate.

Natural habitat:

Confined to fell-field, (1500-2200m) especially along exposed ridge crests, where it may be the most conspicuous plant.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

The South Island’s, higher greywacke montane to subalpine areas of south Canterbury to north Otago.

Height: 30cm

Flowering:

December - January with a yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

February – March

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

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.