Botanical name:

Olearia arborescens

Common name(s):

Common tree daisy, glossy tree daisy

About:

This tree daisy is commonly found in both forested areas and scrubland from Bay of Plenty southward. In a well-maintained garden setting, it typically forms a shrub that can reach heights of about 2-3m. The dark green leaves, which are notably shiny on the upper surface and pale underneath, are broadly oval in shape, featuring a pointed tip and distinct wavy toothed margins. Additionally, the plant produces showy corymbs of small white daisies that bloom profusely from mid-spring to early summer, adding a delightful touch to the landscape.

Natural habitat:

Occurs in forest and shrub-lands in lowland and montane environments.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South & Stewart Islands from the Bay of Plenty southward

Height: 3m

Flowering: 

October – January with a white - yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December  – March

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed and cuttings but very difficult to maintain in cultivation. Will grow in sun or shade but must have a well-drained site and can be temperamental.

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

** Seed can be slow to germinate, taking 9 – 12 months, often with a low germination rate.