Botanical name:

Olearia odorata

Common name(s):

Scented tree daisy

About:

A deciduous divaricating shrub, it can reach heights of up to 4m when found in its natural wild habitat. The small, delicate leaves possess a layer of white tomentum on their undersides, creating a distinctive appearance. During the summer months, rayless scented flower-heads emerge, adding to the plant's charm. This species is primarily located in scrubland environments in the eastern regions of the South Island, specifically ranging from Marlborough to Otago.

Natural habitat:

Inhabiting scrubland and open areas of the South Island east of Main Divide

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island from Marlborough to Otago

Height: 4m

Flowering: 

December  – February with a white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – March

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food and Riparian plantings.

How to grow:

Easily grown from semi-hardwood cuttings and fresh seed. Prefers a dry open site.

** 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.