Olearia nummularifolia
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy is a charming compact alpine shrub renowned for its distinctive small, coin-shaped leaves that give it both its common name and scientific name 'nummularifolia' (coin-leaved). This bushy species features dense twiggy growth up to 3 meters high, with small yellow-green leathery leaves that have rolled-under edges and white undersides. The young sticky yellow twigs are clothed with star-shaped hairs, while clusters of white daisy flowers with pale centers appear from spring through autumn. Naturally occurring in subalpine areas from 600-1400m elevation throughout New Zealand (except Mt Taranaki), it's exceptionally hardy and perfect for challenging alpine conditions. Its compact size and reliable flowering make it excellent for rock gardens and exposed sites. It represents our specialized collection of alpine plants.
Image credit: Coin-leaved Tree Daisy (O. nummularifolia). Wikipedia
| Scientific Name | Olearia nummularifolia |
|---|---|
| Height | 1-3 meters |
| Spread | 1-2 meters |
| Water Needs | Low (very drought tolerant) |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Very high (alpine species) |
| Salt Tolerance | Good |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy thrives in alpine and subalpine climates, naturally occurring from 600-1400m elevation throughout New Zealand except Mt Taranaki. It's perfectly adapted to challenging mountain conditions with extreme temperature variations, strong winds, and dry conditions, making it excellent for exposed sites and difficult growing conditions.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Moderate |
| Auckland | Moderate |
| Hamilton | Good |
| Tauranga | Moderate |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Good |
| New Plymouth | Good |
| Napier | Good |
| Whanganui | Good |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy thrives in challenging soil conditions:
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy adapts to various light conditions:
Very low water needs once established:
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy requires minimal pruning due to its naturally compact habit:
The dense twiggy growth habit is naturally attractive and requires little intervention. Focus on plant health rather than extensive shaping.
Plant Coin-leaved Tree Daisy during spring when growth begins or autumn for establishment before winter. This alpine species benefits from planting during milder weather but adapts well to challenging conditions.
Choose a site with:
Water regularly during first growing season until established. This extremely hardy alpine species becomes very drought tolerant and requires minimal care once established.
Growing Coin-leaved Tree Daisy from seed:
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be successful:
This species prefers slightly challenging conditions rather than pampered garden situations. Replicate alpine conditions with excellent drainage and exposure to elements for best results.
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy represents New Zealand's remarkable alpine flora and the unique adaptations required for high-altitude survival:
Today, Coin-leaved Tree Daisy is valued as an excellent compact alpine plant for challenging sites. Its distinctive appearance and exceptional hardiness make it perfect for rock gardens and difficult locations where few other plants can thrive.
Coin-leaved Tree Daisy is naturally very hardy when grown in appropriate alpine-like conditions. Most problems arise from trying to grow it in overly fertile or poorly-drained situations.
Plant Coin-leaved Tree Daisy in your most challenging garden spot - it thrives where other plants struggle! The distinctive coin-shaped leaves with their rolled-under edges and white undersides create fascinating textural interest, especially when viewed up close. The sticky yellow young twigs with star-shaped hairs are botanically fascinating. Consider it perfect for alpine-themed gardens, rock gardens, or as a conversation piece in containers. Its compact size and extended flowering period from spring through autumn provide excellent value in small spaces.
Learn more about alpine native plants in Alpine Plants.
This section provides important information about plant care and cultivation practices. Understanding these aspects helps ensure successful growth and development in garden conditions.
This section provides important information about plant care and cultivation practices. Understanding these aspects helps ensure successful growth and development in garden conditions.
This section provides important information about plant care and cultivation practices. Understanding these aspects helps ensure successful growth and development in garden conditions.
Olearia are distinguished by their daisy-family flowers featuring white to cream ray petals surrounding yellow disc centers, borne on shrubs or small trees with characteristic flaky, furrowed bark. Leaves vary greatly between species but are typically evergreen and often have white or silvery undersides due to dense hairs. The woody growth form is unusual among the daisy family, with some species developing substantial trunks and canopies.
Tree daisies play crucial roles as pioneer species in disturbed habitats and as shelter providers for other native plants in harsh environments. Their nectar-rich flowers support native insects including butterflies and bees, while their seeds provide food for finches and other small birds. Many species form dense thickets that create microclimates allowing more sensitive plants to establish beneath their protection.
This section provides important information about plant care and cultivation practices. Understanding these aspects helps ensure successful growth and development in garden conditions.
Olearia species are exceptionally tough plants that thrive in exposed, windy conditions and well-drained soils, making them excellent for shelter and establishing gardens in difficult sites. They propagate easily from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in autumn and fresh seed, though seed viability is typically short-term. Most species prefer cool climates and may struggle in hot, humid conditions, performing best with some protection from extreme heat.
Several Olearia species face significant conservation threats, with Hector's tree daisy (O. hectorii) having only around 4,500 individuals remaining in highly fragmented South Island populations. Habitat loss, browsing by introduced mammals, and competition from invasive weeds threaten many species, particularly those with restricted ranges. Climate change may further stress alpine and subalpine species adapted to specific temperature regimes.
This plant has cultural associations in Aotearoa and is valued in restoration and gardens for ecological services; use eco‑sourced stock near natural areas.
Olearia species were valued by Māori for their practical uses, with the strong, dense wood of larger species like akeake used for tool handles, weapons, and construction materials. The name "akeake" reflects the wood's hardness and durability, making it prized for fence posts and implements requiring strength. Some species provided traditional medicines, though specific uses varied among different iwi and regions.
Olearia have evolved remarkable adaptations including dense leaf hairs for protection from UV radiation and desiccation, and the ability to photosynthesize in low-light forest conditions. Their evolution from herbaceous ancestors to woody forms represents adaptation to New Zealand's forest-dominated landscape where height provides competitive advantage. Wind-dispersed seeds allow colonization of new habitats including disturbed sites.
Tree daisies occupy diverse habitats from coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to montane forests and alpine shrublands, with different species adapted to specific environmental conditions. Coastal species tolerate salt spray and strong winds, while montane species like mountain holly thrive in cool, moist "cloud forest" environments. Many species are found along riverbanks and in areas with good drainage but consistent moisture.
