Botanical name:

Leucogenes leontopodium

Common name(s):

North Island edelweiss

About:

Despite its common name, this particular edelweiss species is found not only in the alpine areas of the North Island but also Nelson-Marlborough region in the south. It is a low sprawling plant characterised by leaves that are covered in soft silvery to pale yellow tomentum. The small oblong leaves are closely packed together, creating a dense foliage. In the spring to early summer season, it proudly bears groups of small yellow flower-heads that are surrounded by prominent white woolly petal-like bracts, adding to its visual appeal. This plant requires a gritty, well-drained soil that provides a cool root run to thrive properly. Overall, it is somewhat easier to cultivate than its relative, L. grandiceps, making it a more accessible option for gardeners and plant enthusiasts.

Natural habitat:

Subalpine to alpine. On rock outcrops, cliff faces, and crevices. Usually in sites free of much surrounding vegetation.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North Island, from Mt Hikurangi and the Central Volcanic Plateau south to the Tararua Ranges, and in the South Island Nelsons Richmond Range only.

Height: 15cm

Flowering: 

November – March with a white – yellow coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

January - April

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Container’s & Aline gardens

How to grow:

Easily grown from cuttings and fresh seed. Excellent in a pot within an alpine house, and in non-humid climates can be grown in rock gardens. Provided the root stock is kept cool can be grown in most lowland situations.

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