Botanical name:

Aciphylla horrida

Common name(s):

About:

One of the larger species, it can grow up to 1m tall. The long, narrow leaves are sharply pointed, and the yellowish flowers are carried on massive pyramidal inflorescences, reaching up to 1.3m in height during summer. It is found in subalpine areas, primarily east of the main divide, from around Arthur's Pass to Otago.

Natural habitat:

Sub-alpine to Low-alpine (600-1400m) often common in mixed snow tussock-scrub and snow tussock herb fields.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island, from Mount Uriah south, in higher rainfall areas favouring the western side of Southern Alps, more common towards the south.

Height: 1m

Flowering:

November - January with a cream or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – February

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.