Botanical name:

Astelia linearis

Common name(s): N/A

About:

This is an alpine plant that thrives in boggy areas and wetland environments. There are two distinct varieties, which together have a combined geographic range that extends from the lower North Island all the way southward to the remote Auckland Islands. One of these varieties, A. linearis, is recognised as one of the smallest species within the Astelia genus. It features thick, leathery leaves that reach lengths of only about 10cm. The leaves have a slight silver sheen and typically form low, turf-like mats across the ground. For successful growth, this plant requires moist, peaty soil conditions that are rich in organic matter. However, it is of limited availability in horticultural markets.

Natural habitat:

Subalpine peat bogs.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Shade, Wetland, Salt, Coastal & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South, Stewart & Auckland Islands.

Height: 10cm

Flowering:

Late Spring

Fruiting:

Summer

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Forests, Pioneer Plantings & Container friendly

How to grow:

Propagation is easy by seed or division.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though