Overview
Ourisia macrocarpa is a perennial in the genus Ourisia, part of the Scrophulariaceae family. Ourisia macrocarpa grows best in partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and humus-rich soils and acidic to neutral pH. Suggested uses include rock gardens and alpine gardens. It is native to South Island and New Zealand.
About the genus
Ourisia is a genus of flowering plants of the family Plantaginaceae, native to Andean South America, Tasmania or New Zealand.
Wikipedia contributors, "Ourisia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ourisia
In the garden
Ourisia macrocarpa is a perennial member of the Scrophulariaceae native to the South Island of New Zealand. In cultivation it is grown for its white summer flowers and its preference for cool, sheltered sites rather than exposed plains. The flowering season in the UK is June to August. Site choice is important: give it partial shade on a north or east-facing aspect with protection from prevailing winds. Soil should be humus-rich, free-draining but able to retain moisture, and on the acidic to neutral side of pH. A spot behind a low wall or in a crevice where soil remains cool and sheltered will suit it better than exposed, windy borders. Plants work best in rock gardens and alpine-style beds where pockets of humus-rich soil can be provided. Keep the root run evenly moist without compaction; good drainage is essential so avoid heavy waterlogging. Place it in a location where the summer blooms are visible against rock or gravel, and expect flowers in mid to high summer between June and August.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Ourisia
- Sunlight
- partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, humus-rich
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- north, east
- Exposure
- sheltered
Plant details
Ourisia macrocarpa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, alpine gardens
- Native to
- South Island, New Zealand
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Ourisia macrocarpa
- Cultivation
- requires cool, moist conditions; avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- remove dead flower stems after blooming
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Ourisia macrocarpa?
Requires cool, moist conditions; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Ourisia macrocarpa?
Ourisia macrocarpa prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Ourisia macrocarpa need?
Ourisia macrocarpa grows best in well-drained and humus-rich soil. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Ourisia macrocarpa?
Remove dead flower stems after blooming.
How do I propagate Ourisia macrocarpa?
Seed, division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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