Botanical name:

Pachystegia insignis

Common name(s):

Marlborough Rock Daisy

About:

A low-growing shrub that is especially plentiful in the regions of Kaikoura and Marlborough. It features large, dark green leaves that boast furry, white undersides, giving it a distinctive appearance. Additionally, the shrub is known for its attractive flowers, which stand out from the plant on long, graceful stalks. This species naturally occurs on steep, rocky hillsides in both coastal and mountainous situations. Due to its striking visual appeal, it has become a very attractive and widely cultivated species in various gardens and landscapes.

Natural habitat:

Found occupying rocky cliffs and coastal faces in the seaward Kaikoura Ranges.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Salt, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island in the Marlborough region only.

Height: 1m

Flowering: 

June – August with a white/yellow coloured flower/s

Uses:

Bee food, Riparian plantings & Flowers

How to grow:

Best grown from fresh seed which germinates easily. Can also be grown from cuttings but these are hard to strike. Should be grown in a very dry, sunny place in free draining soil, a rock wall is ideal. Dislikes humidity and once established will not tolerate much root disturbance.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.