Cheeseman's Daisy
Olearia cheesemanii
This native plant, known as Cheeseman's Daisy(scientific name: Olearia cheesemanii ), 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 .
Plant Description
Identification and Physical Characteristics
Although records of specific rongoā for Cheeseman's daisy are limited, larger Olearia (akeake) were noted by Māori for tough, durable timber suited to small implements Discover more about native grasses. Today, Olearia cheesemanii is recognised as a taonga of alpine-montane river systems; iwi, community groups and botanists prioritise it in restoration plantings where stock exclusion, weed control and eco-sourced propagules help re-establish local whakapapa of tree daisies in limestone and schist gorges.Cheeseman's Daisy ( Olearia cheesemanii ), also known as Streamside Tree Daisy, is a charming native evergreen shrub endemic to New Zealand. It typically grows to a height of 0.1 to 4 meters, and has a compact, rounded, or broadly columnar habit. Its bark is grey and tends to flake in long strips, and its young branchlets are grooved and covered in a buff or greyish-white downy tomentum. The foliage is a key feature: the leaves are small, narrow, lance-shaped, and thinly leathery, ranging from 4 to 10 cm long. They are dark green to grey-green and slightly toothed or sinuate on the upper side, with a soft buff, silvery, or pale brown downy covering on the underside. In spring and summer, it produces abundant clusters of small, delicate daisy-like flowers. These flowers have white ray florets and golden or yellow centers, creating a striking display.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Olearia cheesemanii |
|---|---|
| Height | 2-6 m |
| Spread | 2-4 m |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate to good |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived |
Climate Best Suited to
Olearia cheesemanii is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | High |
| Wellington | High |
| Christchurch | Medium |
Plant Habitat
Natural Occurrence and Ecology
Cheeseman's Daisy is an evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, primarily found in rocky river gorges. It thrives in consistently moist environments with moderate temperatures and good humidity. It can also be found in meadows and forests, preferring well-drained, consistently moist soils. It tolerates full sun to partial shade and is often found in forest edge settings.
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 Olearia cheesemanii 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 Cheeseman's Daisy
Cultivating Olearia cheesemanii ( Olearia cheesemanii ) 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 Olearia Cheesemanii 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.
- Collect seeds
- 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.
- Take cuttings
- Use rooting hormone
Additional Methods
Depending on the growth habit of Olearia cheesemanii , 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.
- Divide clumps
- 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
Olearia cheesemanii commemorates Thomas Frederick Cheeseman, author ofThe Manual of the New Zealand Flora(1906). Its naming links the plant to the formative period of New Zealand botany, when many mountain-daisy species were first documented from remote river gorges and alpine slopes. Cultivating the species in public and private collections helps keep that botanical history visible and relevant today.shrub's As a naturally rare shrub of rocky stream margins and bluffs, planting it in restoration settings and alpine-style gardens can support local biodiversity and preserve distinctive riparian shrubland character."At Risk - Declining" Featuring it in regionally appropriate plantings and weed-managed riparian projects raises awareness of threatened native shrubs and their unique river-gorge habitats. New Zealand's
- 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.
Related Plants
Explore other native plants that share similar characteristics or habitats with Olearia Cheesemanii ( Olearia cheesemanii ), offering further insights into New Zealand's diverse flora. These related species provide context and opportunities for complementary planting in your garden.
Plant Conservation
Conservation Status
Olearia cheesemanii , also known as Cheeseman's Daisy or Streamside Tree Daisy, is a rare and threatened native shrub endemic to New Zealand. It is highly valued for its conservation importance and natural beauty, displaying stunning white daisy flowers in spring. This species is typically found in rocky river gorges, often in or near the flood zone, and along lowland streamsides at forest margins in both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. The current conservation status of Olearia cheesemanii is "At Risk - Declining" as of 2023, with previous classifications including "At Risk: Naturally Uncommon" in 2017 and 2012. The primary threats to Olearia cheesemanii include: invasive weeds such as mistflower and buddleia, habitat modification and loss, and river conversion for hydroelectric schemes. Surveys have indicated a population structure skewed towards older adult plants, with few juveniles and seedlings surviving due to weed competition. Conservation efforts and management opportunities include propagation and re-establishment, habitat protection, survey and monitoring, and raising awareness. Growing Olearia cheesemanii in gardens contributes to conservation efforts by ensuring the species survives beyond its threatened natural habitat.