Lancewood Tree Daisy
Olearia lacunosa
This native plant, known as Lancewood Tree Daisy(scientific name: Olearia lacunosa), 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
The narrow-leaved Olearia lacunosa is a characteristic shrub of cool valleys and forest edges Discover more about native trees. Although specific customary uses are not well recorded, tree daisies feature in whakataukī and local plant lore as hardy shelter species. Today, hap ōī and council teams plant lacunosa on slips and track margins to stabilise soil and re-create layered shrubland canopies; this living shelter improves mahinga kai habitat and protects taonga species from desiccating winds.Lancewood Tree Daisy (Olearia lacunosa) is a distinctive shrub or small tree native to New Zealand, typically growing as a robust, spreading shrub, reaching heights of 1.5 to 5 meters. It features long, narrow, leathery leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and have a soft, rusty-fuzzy white or brown underside. The leaves are often wrinkled, with curled-under or down-turned margins, and the veins are conspicuously sunken above and very prominent beneath, creating a series of roughly rectangular hollows on the lower surface. They range from 7.5 to 17 cm long and 1 to 2.5 cm wide. The rough, grey bark flakes in long, thin strips, similar to that of the tōtara tree. During spring and summer, it produces clusters of white daisy flowers with yellow centers. Each flower head is typically 3/16 to 3/8 inches wide and contains eight to twelve florets.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Olearia lacunosa |
|---|---|
| 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 lacunosais well adapted to various New Zealand regions.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | High |
| Wellington | High |
| Christchurch | Medium |
Plant Habitat
Natural Occurrence and Ecology
Lancewood Tree Daisy is native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand, where it can be found at altitudes up to 1,500 meters. This evergreen shrub thrives in environments characterized by sporadic rainfall, preferring well-draining soil that is allowed to dry out between waterings. It requires full sun exposure and grows best in garden loam with a soil pH between 6 and 7. While it can tolerate mild winters in sheltered locations, it is not considered genuinely hardy in colder climates and flourishes in milder regions.
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 lacunosain 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 Lancewood Tree Daisy
Cultivating Olearia lacunosa(Olearia lacunosa) 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 Lacunosa 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 lacunosa, 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
Known as the lancewood tree daisy,Olearia lacunosalinks modern gardens to the early exploration of New Zealand's mountain daisies. Growing it in collections and revegetation projects helps showcase the country's distinctive small-leaved daisy trees.WhileOlearia lacunosa, commonly known as the Lancewood Tree Daisy, is a native New Zealand plant known to Māori for centuries, specific detailed cultural significance or traditional uses directly attributed to this particular species are not extensively documented. However, the broader Olearia genus, to whichOlearia lacunosabelongs, held practical value for Māori. Larger Olearia species, such as "akeake," were utilized for their strong, dense wood in crafting tool handles, weapons, and construction materials. Some Olearia species also provided traditional medicines, with specific applications varying among different iwi (tribes) and regions. It is important to distinguishOlearia lacunosafrom the "Lancewood" or "horoeka," which primarily refers to species within the Pseudopanax genus, particularlyPseudopanax crassifolius. These Pseudopanax species have more documented Māori cultural significance. WhileOlearia lacunosais recognized for its distinctive textural qualities and hardiness in New Zealand's high country, its specific role in Māori cultural practices or folklore is not as clearly defined as that of the Pseudopanax lancewoods.
- 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 lacunosa (Olearia lacunosa), 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 lacunosa, also known as the lancewood tree daisy, is an endemic vascular plant native to New Zealand. According to the New Zealand Threat Classification Series from both 2012 and 2017, its conservation status is "Not Threatened".