Botanical name:

Brachyglottis rotundifolia

Common name(s):

Mutton-bird scrub

About:

A hardy coastal plant native to the South Island and Stewart Island, it thrives in challenging environments. This resilient species grows into a rounded shrub characterised by its thick, oval leaves, the undersides of which are adorned with a dense covering of white to buff tomentum. During the summer months, lovely rayless flower-heads make their appearance, adding a subtle charm to the landscape. Notably, this plant is well-adapted to endure the strong salt winds that are common in its coastal habitat.

Natural habitat:

Coastal cliffs & banks to the tree-line.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Coastal, Salt, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South, Stewart and Solander Islands.

Height: 6m +

Flowering:

December - January with a yellow coloured follower/s

Fruiting:

January – February

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Pioneer plantings & Flowers.

How to grow:

Easy grown from fresh seed and semi-hardwood cuttings. A very hardy shrub which is able to withstand strong salt winds.

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