Botanical name:

Pimelea urvilleana subsp. urvilleana

Common name(s):

Pinātoro

About:

P. urvilleana subsp. urvilleana is a small and prostrate shrub that features stout and flexible stems that can grow up to 30cm long. The branchlets of this particular shrub are notably covered with a dense layer of matted white hair, giving it a unique appearance. In contrast, the older stems exhibit a grey-brown coloration and are only slightly hairy. The decussate leaves are generally arranged in an alternating pattern, forming two opposite vertical rows, and they can be flat or possess a slight keel, contributing to the overall distinctiveness of the plant.

Natural habitat:

Coastal. Rocky outcrops, cliffs, sometimes in amongst scrub.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South Islands. In the North Island widespread, often common from Three Kings, throughout coastal Northland, thence mostly easterly south to the Wairarapa and south Taranaki. In the South Island, Tasman Bay (Astrolabe Passage) & Marlborough Sounds.

Height: 30cm

Flowering: 

Late spring – early summer with a white coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Ground cover.

How to grow:

Probably easiest grown from semi-hardwood cuttings and rooted pieces. As with other Pimelea seed can be difficult to germinate.

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