Chatham Is. Akeake
Brachyglottis traversii
Brachyglottis traversii , commonly known as the Chatham Island Akeake or Travers' Daisy Bush, is a robust and highly ornamental evergreen shrub endemic to the Chatham Islands of New Zealand. This hardy daisy bush is exceptionally well-adapted to the exposed, windswept coastal conditions of its native habitat, making it an excellent choice for gardens in challenging maritime environments. It is a visually striking plant with its dense, leathery foliage and cheerful yellow flowers.
Plant Description
The Chatham Island Akeake grows as a dense, rounded, and bushy shrub, typically reaching 1 to 2 meters in height and spread. Its leaves are a key feature: thick, leathery, elliptic to oblong-obovate, and often a glossy dark green on the upper surface, with a paler, sometimes silvery-white, felted underside. The leaves are typically 5-10 cm long and are borne on stout, reddish stems. In late spring to early summer, the plant produces numerous clusters of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, which are highly attractive to pollinators and provide a cheerful display against the dark foliage. The flowers are followed by small, downy seed heads.
Quick Facts
| Family | Asteraceae |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy |
| Salt Tolerance | High |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Soil | Well-drained, tolerant of poor soils |
| Water | Low, drought-tolerant once established |
| Water Needs | Moderate to high; requires consistent moisture reflecting its oceanic island origins with 912mm annual rainfall. Regular watering essential during establishment, then tolerant of brief dry periods but performs best with consistent moisture and excellent drainage. |
| Scientific Name | Brachyglottis traversii |
| Height | 1-2 m |
| Spread | 1-2 m |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Brachyglottis traversii , endemic to the Chatham Islands, requires maritime conditions with constant humidity and protection from temperature extremes. This species thrives in cool, oceanic climates with year-round moisture and temperatures between 5-20°C. It performs best in coastal areas with high humidity, regular rainfall, and protection from frost and hot, dry conditions.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Marginal |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Unsuitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Marginal |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Marginal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
Brachyglottis traversii is endemic to the Chatham Islands, where it is found in exposed coastal areas, cliff faces, and open scrubland. It often grows on rocky outcrops and well-drained soils, thriving in situations where it is regularly exposed to salt-laden winds. Its ability to form dense, wind-resistant thickets makes it an important component of the Chatham Islands' coastal vegetation.
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
Brachyglottis traversii is currently classified as "Naturally Uncommon" under the New Zealand Threat Classification System. While its population is stable within its restricted range on the Chatham Islands, its narrow endemic distribution means it is susceptible to localized threats such as habitat degradation, browsing by introduced animals, and competition from invasive plant species. Conservation efforts focus on managing these threats within its natural habitat.
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Brachyglottis traversii is a relatively easy-to-grow and low-maintenance plant. It requires full sun and exceptionally well-drained soil; it tolerates poor, sandy, or gravelly soils very well. Good air circulation is essential. Water regularly during the first growing season until established, after which it becomes highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplementary watering. Avoid overwatering, especially in winter, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant Brachyglottis traversii in spring or autumn in a sunny, open position with free-draining soil. Dig a planting hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Ensure the plant's crown is level with the surrounding soil. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of coarse mulch (such as gravel or bark chips) to help suppress weeds and conserve soil moisture. Space plants 1-1.5 meters apart for hedging or as individual specimens. It benefits from initial staking in very windy sites until its root system is established.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
Brachyglottis traversii plays an important ecological role in the Chatham Islands' coastal ecosystems. Its dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for native birds and invertebrates. The abundant yellow flowers are a valuable source of nectar and pollen for native insects, contributing to the island's biodiversity. Its robust root system helps to stabilize sandy soils and prevent erosion in its exposed coastal habitats.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Brachyglottis traversii is an excellent ornamental plant for coastal gardens, rockeries, and dry, sunny borders. Its tolerance of harsh conditions makes it a valuable plant for revegetation and stabilization of exposed coastal sites. The attractive foliage and flowers also make it a good choice for mixed native plantings.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
This daisy bush is superb as a low-maintenance hedging plant, a windbreak, or as a striking specimen plant in a coastal garden. Its dense, rounded form provides year-round structure and its silver-backed leaves add visual interest, especially when ruffled by the wind. It pairs well with other hardy coastal natives.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Brachyglottis traversii requires minimal seasonal care. Prune after flowering in late summer or early autumn to maintain its shape and density. Water during extended dry spells, particularly in its first year. Fertilization is generally not required, as it prefers lean soils. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal issues.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Prune Brachyglottis traversii lightly after its main flowering period to maintain a compact, dense habit and to encourage fresh growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or straggly branches. Avoid severe pruning into old wood, as it may not regenerate well. Always use clean, sharp secateurs.
How to Grow Chatham Is. Akeake
From Seed
Propagation from fresh seed is a viable method for Brachyglottis traversii. Collect mature seeds from the dried flower heads in autumn. Clean the seeds of any chaff and sow them onto a free-draining seed-raising mix in autumn or early spring. Cover the seeds very lightly with fine grit or vermiculite, as some light can be beneficial for germination. Maintain consistent moisture and provide warmth (ideally around 15-20°C). Germination typically occurs within a few weeks to months. Once seedlings are robust enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered location until strong enough for planting out.
From Cuttings
Brachyglottis traversii can be effectively propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings. Take cuttings about 10-15 cm long from healthy, non-flowering shoots in late summer or early autumn. Remove lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and insert into a free-draining propagation mix (e.g., sand and perlite). Place in a sheltered, humid environment with indirect light. Rooting typically occurs within 6-10 weeks. Young plants establish quickly once transplanted and can be moved to permanent positions after their first growing season. This method provides a reliable way to replicate specific desirable traits of the parent plant.
General Cultivation
The Chatham Island Akeake is a robust and highly ornamental evergreen shrub exceptionally well-adapted to exposed, windswept coastal conditions. It requires full sun and exceptionally well-drained soil, tolerating poor, sandy, or gravelly substrates very well. Good air circulation is essential for its health. Water regularly during the first growing season until established, after which it becomes highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplementary watering. Avoid overwatering, especially in winter, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. It is hardy and tolerant of salt-laden winds, making it an excellent choice for gardens in challenging maritime environments. Light pruning after flowering can help maintain its dense, bushy habit and encourage fresh growth.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Brachyglottis traversii is generally a very robust plant and largely free from serious pests and diseases when grown in suitable conditions. The main issue to avoid is root rot, which can occur in poorly drained or excessively wet soils. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal problems in humid environments. Aphids or scale insects may occasionally appear but rarely cause significant damage.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
As an endemic species of the Chatham Islands, Brachyglottis traversii is a significant component of the islands' unique flora and natural heritage. It holds cultural value as a symbol of the resilience and adaptability of island ecosystems. Its role in the traditional landscape of the Chatham Islands connects it to the cultural identity of the Moriori people. In contemporary times, it contributes to the conservation narrative of New Zealand's unique island biodiversity.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
The silvery underside of the leaves of Brachyglottis traversii is an adaptation to help reflect sunlight and reduce water loss, making it highly resilient in exposed, sunny, and windy coastal environments. This feature also adds to its ornamental appeal.
