Overview
Aciphylla aurea is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Aciphylla, part of the Apiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Aciphylla aurea grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include border plant and specimen plant.
About
Aciphylla aurea, known as taramea in Māori and golden speargrass or golden Spaniard in New Zealand English, is a large, spiky, tufted plant with sharp yellowish-green leaves in the speargrass genus Aciphylla. A. aurea is found throughout the South Island of New Zealand in montane to low alpine habitats. In the wild it grows across New Zealand South and New Zealand. Grow it in full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). It works well for border plant and specimen plant. It tolerates neutral soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Aciphylla aurea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Aciphylla
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Aciphylla aurea size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Border plant, specimen plant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Aciphylla aurea
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Aciphylla aurea?
Aciphylla aurea prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Aciphylla aurea need?
Aciphylla aurea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Aciphylla aurea hardy in the UK?
Aciphylla aurea has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Aciphylla aurea?
Seed, division.
