About

In early spring, unspectacular dull white flowers are borne. An upright evergreen shrub or small tree to a height of up to 10m. It has small green oval-shaped leaves that are white and downy underneath.

About the genus

Olearia can be evergreen shrubs, small trees or herbaceous perennials, with simple, leathery, toothed or entire leaves and corymbs of daisy-like flower-heads

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeSand, Loam, Chalk
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toNew Zealand

Care notes

CultivationGrow in a sunny position in well-drained soil. Makes a good windbreak or hedge in coastal areas
PruningPruning group 8. In freestanding specimens allow to develop naturally. To keep within bounds, cut out one third to half of the previous year's growth after flowewring. If required, can be hard pruned and will regenerate well from low down
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings or semi-ripe cuttings from summer to autumn Propagate by hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free but may be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)