Botanical name:

Pachystegia rufa

Common name(s):

Marlborough rock daisy

About:

Pachystegia rufa is a low-growing, spreading shrub that is native to New Zealand’s South Island. This resilient plant can be found thriving on rocky hillsides and in coastal situations specifically within the Marlborough region. While it shares similarities with P. insignis, Pachystegia rufa is characterised by its smaller leaves and is often said to be hardier, making it well-suited for various growing conditions.

Natural habitat:

Rocky hill sides and coastal situations

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island on the Haldon Hills in the Marlborough region only

Height: 70cm

Flowering: 

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

Uses:

Bee food, Riparian plantings & Flowers

How to grow:

Best from fresh seed which germinates easily. Can 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. Transplants with difficulty. An attractive species which should be grown more than it currently is.

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