Botanical name:

Olearia traversii

Common name(s):

Chatham Island akeake, hakapiri

About:

This native of the Chatham Islands has the potential to grow to more than 12m in height, but it is seldom allowed to reach such impressive dimensions when cultivated in garden environments. The broad, oval-shaped leaves are leathery to the touch and showcase a rich dark green colour on their upper surface, while the underside is adorned with a soft white tomentum that adds to its distinctive appearance. Although the flowers produced during the summer months are quite insignificant in size and appearance, the true appeal of this tree lies in its remarkable tolerance of very dry conditions. Additionally, its willingness to be clipped and shaped makes it an even more attractive option for gardeners. This adaptability is precisely why it has become such a popular choice along the seaside, where it is frequently utilised for hedging or as a form of shelter in coastal landscapes.

Natural habitat:

A tree common of lowland forests, now most commonly found on dune systems. It also occurs along the edge of larger lagoons and lakes (but only in free draining soils) and sometimes on cliff tops.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Chatham Islands

Height: 12 – 18m

Flowering: 

November – January with a cream - yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – June

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Hedging, Shelter belts, Timber & Firewood

How to grow:

Easily grown from semi-hardwood cuttings and fresh seed. Fast growing and an excellent shelter belt. This species rarely flowers in the northern part of New Zealand.

** 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.