Botanical name:

Olearia cheesemanii

Common name(s):

Streamside tree daisy, Cheeseman’s tree daisy

About:

O. cheesemanii is typically found along the gentle stream-sides and on the forest margins from Auckland southward. It grows into a well-branched shrub that reaches heights of approximately 1.5 to 3m. The leaves are lance-shaped, somewhat leathery in texture, deep green on the upper side, and covered with a soft buff tomentum underneath. In the vibrant spring months, clusters of beautiful white daisies bloom abundantly, smothering the bush and creating a stunning visual spectacle. This plant is an excellent and showy addition to any garden. It prefers a sunny location and requires good drainage to thrive effectively.

Natural habitat:

Rocky river gorges in or near the flood zone.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. In the North Island known from the Ohinemuri River south to the Tararua Ranges. In the South Island confined to North West Nelson and the vicinity of Westport near Ngakawau.

Height: 3m

Flowering: 

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

Fruiting:

November  – June

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easy from semi-hardwood cuttings and fresh seed. A very fast growing and attractive floriferous shrub. Tends to be short-lived. Does best in moist soils in sun or semi-shade.

** 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.