Thread-leaved Anisotome
Anisotome filifolia
An alpine member of the carrot family (Apiaceae) with finely divided, often ferny foliage and showy umbels of small flowers. Naturally found on cool, open slopes and rocky herbfields with excellent drainage. In cultivation, provide a gritty, lean mix, high light and steady airflow. alpine plants .
Plant Description
Perennial herb forming clumps of finely divided leaves from a stout crown. Umbels carried on erect stems above the foliage. Adapted to cool, bright, free-draining alpine conditions with slow, steady growth.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Anisotome filifolia |
|---|---|
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Form | Clumping perennial; finely divided foliage; umbels |
| Light | Full sun to high bright light |
| Soil | Gritty, lean, free-draining mineral mix |
| Water | Moderate; avoid stagnant winter wet |
| Height | Variable by habitat |
| Spread | Forms clumps or patches |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Frost Tolerance | High - tolerant of severe freezes |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Cool-summer districts with airflow and rapid drainage; excels in troughs and rock gardens.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Queenstown | Ideal |
| Wānaka | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Moderate |
| Wellington | Moderate |
| Auckland | Marginal |
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Plant Habitat
occurs in natural habitats characteristic of Aotearoa, forming part of distinctive plant communities where site stress and local disturbance shape vegetation patterns. It favours exposed slopes, screes or fellfields with thin, rapidly drained mineral soils, enduring intense radiation, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. On the coast it occupies sunny, wind‑prone sites with sandy or rocky substrates, where salt‑laden air and periodic drought limit competition. These preferences explain its patchy distribution and sensitivity to changes in hydrology, competition and disturbance regimes. Anisotome filifolia
Plant Conservation
are influenced by land use, browsing and weeds. Protecting intact habitat mosaics, reducing browser pressure, and managing invasive plants sustain recruitment. Where local stands are small or isolated, eco‑sourced augmentation and careful site stewardship help secure long‑term viability. Anisotome filifolia Populations of
Growing Requirements
Soil
Gritty, mineral mix with perfect drainage; plant high among rocks.
Light
Full sun; strong light promotes compact growth.
Water
Moderate; reduce in winter; avoid crown wetness.
Planting Guide
Planting Steps
Plant in the cool, moist months into weed‑free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Grouping two to three plants replicates natural patterns and improves establishment under local conditions.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
contributes structure and seasonal resources where it grows, providing cover and habitat for invertebrates and, when flowering or fruiting, nectar, pollen or seed for fauna. By tolerating the stresses of its environment, it helps stabilise sites and enrich small‑scale habitat diversity. Anisotome filifolia
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Ideal for rock and gravel gardens that emulate alpine processes, or for specialised collections. Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Little pruning is required; remove dead or crossing material after flowering and avoid hard renovation cuts. Light tip‑pruning maintains compact form without compromising the plant’s natural character.
How to Grow Thread-leaved Anisotome
From Seed
Anisotome filifolia is best propagated from fresh seed. In the wild, the seeds are wind-dispersed, so harvest them as soon as they begin to loosen on the umbels in late summer.
Sow immediately or store in a cool, dry place for spring sowing. Use a very free-draining, sandy seed mix. Cover the seeds lightly with grit.
Germination is usually reliable in spring. The seedlings develop a long taproot very early, so it is crucial to prick them out into deep containers (like root trainers) as soon as the first true leaves appear to avoid root disturbance later.
Cultivation and Care
This species has a deep taproot and generally resents disturbance, making division difficult and risky. It is best to rely on seed for propagation.
In the garden, it demands an open, sunny position with perfect drainage. It is a true dryland/alpine plant that thrives in deep, sandy or gritty soils. It will rot quickly in heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
Avoid rich fertilizers which can cause soft, uncharacteristic growth. Grow it "hard" in lean conditions to maintain its fine, wiry form. It is extremely hardy to frost and drought once established. Once established, watering requirements are minimal, reflecting its adaptation to dry, exposed sites. However, during prolonged dry spells, occasional deep watering may be beneficial, especially for young plants. Position it carefully in the landscape where its delicate foliage can be appreciated without being overshadowed by more vigorous plants.
Pests & Diseases
Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. Crown and root rots arise if winter wet persists; keep crowns elevated and water moving. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
Indigenous landscapes and the species that persist within them are taonga. Honouring whakapapa and kaitiakitanga means protecting habitats, using eco‑sourced plants in restoration, and passing on knowledge about local names, uses and tikanga so these relationships endure.
Bonus Tip
Fine Texture
The specific epithet filifolia means "thread-leaved," referring to its delicate, fern-like foliage. This fine texture provides a wonderful contrast to the bold, broad leaves of flaxes and Astelias in a rock garden.
