<i>Brachyglottis stewartiae</i>(Brachyglottis stewartiae) hero image

Stewart Island Daisy

Brachyglottis stewartiae

Not specified

This native plant, known as Brachyglottis stewartiae (scientific name: Brachyglottis stewartiae ), is a remarkable species endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its unique features, ecological role, and cultural significance. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its care, propagation, and importance within the New Zealand ecosystem. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for Browse All .

<i>Brachyglottis stewartiae</i>(Brachyglottis stewartiae) showing <i>Brachyglottis stewartiae</i>growth habit
Image credit: Stewart Island Daisy (B. stewartiae) - photo by Wikipedia contributors, via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Identification and Physical Characteristics

The Stewart Island Daisy typically grows as a large, spreading shrub or small tree, reaching up to 6 meters or more in height Discover more about native grasses. It features stout, often gnarled branches that are clad with persistent leaf bases, creating a textured appearance. The leaves are subcoriaceous (leathery), ranging from 7-18 cm long, and are narrow, rolled, and shiny grey-green on top, with a whitish underside. In summer, the plant produces conspicuous clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, approximately 2 cm wide, with 10-15 narrow, contorted ray-florets. These vibrant blooms provide a stark contrast to the plant's silvery-green foliage.

Quick Facts

Brachyglottis stewartiae quick facts
Scientific Name Brachyglottis stewartiae
Height Up to 6m
Spread Up to 4m
Water Needs High; requires consistent moisture reflecting its temperate rainforest origins with 1600-3000mm annual rainfall. Benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods.
Light Full sun to partial shade
Frost Tolerance Hardy to light frost
Salt Tolerance High
Growth Rate Moderate
Lifespan Long-lived perennial

Climate Best Suited to

Brachyglottis stewartiae is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Brachyglottis stewartiae
City Climate Suitability
Auckland High
Wellington High
Christchurch Medium

Plant Habitat

Natural Occurrence and Ecology

Brachyglottis stewartiae is endemic to Stewart Island/Rakiura and its outlying islets, such as The Snares and Solander Islands. It naturally inhabits sheltered coastal forests and forest margins, where it forms a significant component of the canopy alongside other native species. It thrives from sea level up to approximately 300 meters elevation, favoring sites with high humidity, consistent rainfall, and protection from extreme temperature fluctuations. It typically colonizes well-drained slopes, cliff faces, and forest edges where adequate light supports its flowering while the forest canopy provides shelter from desiccating winds.

Growing Requirements

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

  • Well-drained
  • Loamy

Light Requirements

Grows best in partial to full sun.

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade

Water Requirements

Requires regular watering during dry periods.

  • Regular
  • Drought tolerant once established

Planting and Establishing

Establishment Guidance

Plant Brachyglottis stewartiae in a hole twice the width of the root ball.

Proper establishment is key to long-term success. Ensure the planting hole is twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with a mix of native soil and organic compost. Initial watering should be thorough, followed by regular monitoring during the first two growing seasons to ensure the plant becomes well-anchored and resilient to local climate fluctuations.

Ecological Role

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact

Provides habitat and food for native fauna.

This species plays a vital role in its local ecosystem, providing essential habitat and food sources for native biodiversity. Its presence supports complex ecological interactions, contributing to the overall health and stability of the environment. By planting this native, you help maintain the intricate web of life that defines New Zealand's unique natural heritage.

Uses & Significance

Garden Uses

Ideal for rock gardens and native borders.

  • Rock gardens
  • Ground cover

Ecological Value

Supports local pollinators.

  • Birds
  • Insects

The versatility of this plant makes it a valuable addition to many New Zealand gardens. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it offers practical benefits such as soil stabilization and shelter for smaller plants. Its historical and modern uses highlight its enduring importance in both traditional practices and contemporary landscape design, making it a thoughtful choice for any restoration or gardening project.

Landscaping Uses

Adds texture and form to modern landscapes.

In a landscape setting, this plant provides excellent structure and year-round interest. Its unique form and foliage can be used to create focal points or as a cohesive element in a larger native planting scheme. It pairs well with other New Zealand natives, allowing for the creation of diverse and resilient garden environments that reflect the natural beauty of Aotearoa.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Mulch and apply balanced fertilizer.

  • Fertilize
  • Mulch

Summer

Water deeply during dry spells.

  • Water
  • Check for pests

Autumn

Tidy up any dead foliage.

  • Prune lightly
  • Plant new specimens

Winter

Protect from heavy frosts if necessary.

  • Frost protection

When to Prune and How Much

Minimal pruning required to maintain shape.

  • Remove dead branches

Always use clean, sharp tools.

Regular maintenance through careful pruning ensures the plant remains healthy and maintains its desired shape. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood to promote better air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens. Proper pruning techniques help the plant direct its energy toward new growth, resulting in a more robust and aesthetically pleasing specimen in your garden.

How to Grow Stewart Island Daisy

Cultivating Brachyglottis stewartiae ( Brachyglottis stewartiae ) is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener interested in New Zealand's unique flora. This species can be propagated through several methods, each requiring specific conditions to ensure healthy growth and establishment. Successful propagation depends on mimicking the plant's natural environment and providing consistent care during the early stages of development.

From Seed

Propagation from seed is often the most effective way to produce a large number of Brachyglottis stewartiae plants. Seeds should be collected when they are fully mature. Freshly collected seeds generally have higher germination rates than those that have been stored for long periods.

Sow fresh seeds in a seed-raising mix.

  1. Collect seeds
  2. Sow in trays

Keep moist until germination.

From Cuttings

For those wishing to replicate specific characteristics of a parent plant, vegetative propagation via cuttings is the preferred method. This technique ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the source. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the appropriate season usually yield the best results for this species.

Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

  1. Take cuttings
  2. Use rooting hormone

Additional Methods

Depending on the growth habit of Brachyglottis stewartiae , other methods such as division or layering might also be viable options. Division is particularly suitable for plants that form dense clumps or have spreading root systems, while layering can be used for species with trailing or flexible stems.

Division can be done in early spring.

  1. Divide clumps
  2. Replant immediately

Pests & Diseases

Generally resistant to major pests.

While generally resilient, maintaining optimal growing conditions is the best defense against pests and diseases. Regular monitoring allows for early detection of any issues, which can often be managed through cultural practices or organic interventions. Ensuring good air circulation and appropriate watering will significantly reduce the plant's susceptibility to common environmental stresses and pathogens.

Cultural Significance

As Stewart Island's only endemic tree species, Brachyglottis stewartiae holds special significance for Rakiura's local community and represents the island's unique botanical heritage. Named in honour of the island itself, the species symbolizes the distinct ecological character of New Zealand's third-largest island. While specific traditional Māori uses are not well documented, it belongs to the broader Asteraceae family that provided various medicinal applications in rongoā Māori. Contemporary conservation efforts recognize its importance as a flagship species for Stewart Island's endemic flora, featuring in ecological education programs and restoration projects that celebrate the island's natural heritage.

  • Traditional medicine
  • Crafts

Bonus Tip

Excellent for low-maintenance gardens.

For an extra boost, consider applying a thin layer of high-quality organic mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually improves soil structure as it breaks down. This simple step can make a significant difference in the plant's overall vigor and resilience, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Plant Conservation

Conservation Status

Brachyglottis stewartiae is classified as "Naturally Uncommon" under New Zealand's Threat Classification System. This classification reflects its restricted geographic distribution rather than immediate threats to its overall population. As Stewart Island's only endemic tree species, it holds significant botanical importance. The population remains stable within its limited range, protected by the remote nature of its habitat and the conservation status of much of Stewart Island. However, its narrow endemic range makes it potentially vulnerable to climate change impacts, invasive species, or catastrophic events affecting its isolated island habitats.