About
Olearia macrodonta, the New Zealand holly, is a vigorous, upright, evergreen shrub or small tree to 6 m with spiny-toothed, oval, grey-green leaves, white-felted beneath. In summer it bears large clusters of small, scented, white daisy-like flowerheads. An ornamental and reliable daisy bush excellent for coastal hedging.
About the genus
Olearia, the daisy bushes, are evergreen shrubs, small trees and occasionally herbaceous perennials from Australasia with simple, leathery, toothed or entire leaves and corymbs of daisy-like flowerheads, usually with white ray florets and yellow centres. Grown in sheltered, sunny gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toNew Zealand
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun
PruningPruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free but may be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)