Botanical name:

Aciphylla similis

Common name(s):

About:

The specific name of this Aciphylla means "resembling," as it closely resembles A. monroi. However, its stiff, yellowish-green leaves are broader, more closely spaced, and fan-shaped, creating a look reminiscent of a cycad or palm. While its flowering stems are similar to those of A. monroi, they grow slightly taller, reaching up to 40cm in A. similis. This species thrives in wetter alpine tussock-land, ranging from Lewis Pass to southern Canterbury. It requires more moisture than A. monroi and benefits from partial shade in northern regions.

Natural habitat:

Subalpine to alpine (900-1100m) in open ground, usually in Rytidosperma dominated grassland or amongst open tall tussocks, often found in such vegetation types in ablation hollows or on stony well drained soils.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island, along the main divide from the Lewis Pass south to the Two Thumb Range. Also found in Westland on mountain ranges such as the Hohonu.

Height: 40cm

Flowering:

November – February with a cream or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – April

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Container friendly

How to grow:

Propagation is usually by seed, although cuttings can be taken from some smaller species. Easily grown in pots in an alpine house and does well in most situations except in climates prone to high humidity. Requires a free draining soil and a sunny situation, flowers best following a cold winter.

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