Botanical name:

Olearia lacunosa

Common name(s):

Lancewood Tree Daisy,  Rough Leaved Tree Daisy

About:

This tree daisy is primarily found in subalpine forests that stretch from the Tararua Range in the north all the way down to approximately the Franz Joseph Glacier in the south. It typically grows into a robust, spreading shrub that reaches heights of 1.5 to 4m. Its foliage features distinctive dark green leaves that are not only long and very narrow but also exhibit a textured, wrinkled upper surface along with a soft, rusty brown tomentum underneath. During the delightful seasons of spring and summer, beautiful flower-heads of white daisies emerge, adding a touch of charm to its surroundings.

Natural habitat:

Subalpine to alpine forests 900 – 2300m.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s lower North Island, southwards along mainly the west coast of the South Island. 

Height: 4m

Flowering: 

November – February with a white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – February

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Grown from fresh seed or division. Requires  cool moist conditions and can be difficult to establish in warmer areas.

** 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.