Botanical name:

Brachyglottis kirkii var. angustior (Urostemon kirkii)

Common name(s):

Kohurangi, Kirk’s tree daisy

About:

B. kirki var. angustior is a variety characterized by narrower leaves compared to Brachyglottis kirkii var. kirkii, which is typically found in Northland and Auckland. In its natural habitat, this plant can grow as either an epiphyte or a ground shrub. In cultivated settings, it tends to form a shrub approximately 1.5m in height. Flowering takes place over several months starting in spring, producing showy heads of white daisies. This plant can be somewhat temperamental when grown in gardens. It thrives in shady conditions with well-drained soil that retains sufficient moisture, and regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape.

Natural habitat:

Forest floors

Growing environment:

Shade & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Confined to the North Island where it is known from about Te Puke and Ngaruawahia north to Te Paki

Height: 1.5m

Flowering:

(January-) March – June with a white or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

(February-) April – August

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Temperamental. Best grown from fresh seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.

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