Fringed Tree Daisy
Olearia fimbriata
Explore more NZ native plant guides in our index .
Olearia fimbriata is a New Zealand tree daisy distinguished by finely fringed details of the capitula and foliage textures. It is a hardy shrub to small tree suited to open scrub and forest edge habitats, flowering in heads typical of the Asteraceae.
Identification
Leaves are simple, alternate and often leathery; margins may be entire to subtly toothed. Capitula feature ligulate ray florets around tubular disc florets. Check leaf texture, hairiness and capitulum size/arrangement to distinguish from related species.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Olearia fimbriata |
|---|---|
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Endemism | Endemic to New Zealand |
| Height | 1-2 m |
| Spread | 40-120 cm across |
| Water Needs | Moderate; avoid waterlogging |
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate to high (coastal species) |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Mild temperate districts; tolerates wind and moderate coastal exposure.
Regional Suitability
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat and Distribution
Typical of coastal to lowland scrub, shrublands and forest margins on free-draining soils with good light. Tolerant of wind and modest coastal exposure.
Plant Conservation
Olearia fimbriata ( Olearia fimbriata ) represents an important component of New Zealand's unique flora. Conservation of native plant species and their habitats is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Grow in full sun to part shade, in well-drained soil. Water to establish; prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Good for shelter and mixed native plantings.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Space 1-2 m apart in mixed native borders or restoration sites. Plant at nursery depth, water in well, and mulch to 5-7 cm, keeping mulch off stems. Shelter young plants from harsh coastal winds.
Ecology
Flowering provides resources for native pollinators; the shrub form adds structure and cover for invertebrates and small birds along forest edges and in shrublands.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations. Fits woodland and understory schemes beneath open canopies, especially in restoration plantings.
Landscaping Ideas
Combine with compatible natives to echo its natural associates, and use stony or leaf‑litter mulches to reinforce the intended microclimate. Avoid cramped beds; allow room for the plant’s mature form to read as a clear structural element.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring: check ties and remove winter damage. Summer: water deeply but infrequently to promote deep roots. Autumn: refresh mulches and reduce irrigation as growth slows. Winter: ensure drainage and exposure are maintained, especially on heavy soils.
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 Fringed Tree Daisy
From Seed
Propagation of Olearia fimbriata from fresh seed is a viable method. Collect seeds (achenes) from the dried flower heads once they are mature, typically in late summer to autumn. Sow the seeds onto a very free-draining seed-raising mix in spring, covering lightly. Asteraceae seeds often benefit from light for germination, so maintain good light exposure. Keep the substrate evenly moist but not saturated, ensuring good air circulation to prevent damping-off. Germination can be erratic and slow, often taking several weeks to months. Once seedlings are robust enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a cool, bright, and well-ventilated location until strong enough for planting out.
From Cuttings
Olearia fimbriata can be successfully propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer to early autumn. Select healthy, firm stem segments, about 10-15 cm long, from the current season's growth. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Insert the cuttings into a free-draining rooting medium such as a mix of sand and perlite. Provide bottom heat (around 18-24°C or 65-75°F) and high humidity around the cuttings, either by placing them in a propagation chamber or covering them with a plastic bag. Keep in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Rooting typically occurs reliably within 8-16 weeks. Once rooted, gradually acclimatize plants to ambient conditions before potting up.
General Cultivation
The Fringed Tree Daisy is a hardy shrub to small tree well-suited to open scrub and forest edge habitats. It thrives in mild temperate districts, tolerating wind and moderate coastal exposure. Plant in full sun to part shade, in well-drained soil; avoid prolonged waterlogging. This species generally benefits from an open position with good air movement. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture through dry spells and to suppress weeds in the establishment phase, keeping material clear of the stem base. Water during establishment; thereafter, only during extended drought. Prune after flowering to maintain compact form and promote new shoots. Shelter young plants from the strongest, salt-laden winds until well rooted. Sun and free-draining soils yield the tightest, most floriferous plants.
Pests & Diseases
Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. In still, shaded corners, sap‑suckers and sooty mould may appear; improve airflow and wash foliage if needed. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
As an endemic New Zealand tree daisy, Olearia fimbriata plays a valuable role in the restoration of coastal and lowland shrubland ecosystems. It contributes to mahinga kai (food and resource gathering) habitats by supporting native insects and birds, thereby enhancing the biodiversity and ecological health of these areas.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
For the most abundant flowering and a dense, compact form, ensure Olearia fimbriata is planted in a position that receives full sun with exceptionally free-draining soil. These conditions mimic its natural habitat and promote vigorous, healthy growth and a profusion of blooms.
Related Plants
Explore more New Zealand shrubs with daisy-like blooms.
