About
Olearia paniculata, the akiraho, is an upright, large shrub or small tree to 6 m with young shoots in dark-brown felt, wavy-edged, olive-green leaves to 10 cm and dull-white, scented flowerheads produced in autumn and early winter. One of the most distinctively fragrant of all Olearia � a rewarding shrub for a sheltered, sunny garden or as a screen.
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, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toNew Zealand
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun; it makes an excellent wind-resistant hedge in seaside gardens
PruningNo pruning required or Pruning group 9 (late-flowering evergreen shrubs)
PropagationPropagate by seed, by semi-ripe cuttings in summer, or by heeled hardwood cuttings of lateral shoots in a cold frame in early autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free but may be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)