Raoulia eximia

Raoulia eximia

Not Threatened

Raoulia eximia, also known as vegetable sheep, is a remarkable alpine cushion plant native to New Zealand. Its dense, woolly appearance from a distance gives it its common name, as early settlers mistook clusters of these plants for sheep grazing on mountainsides. This fascinating plant forms compact, silver-white mounds that are perfectly adapted to harsh alpine conditions. native trees

<i>Raoulia eximia</i> (Vegetable Sheep) showing its woolly mound form

Image credit: Vegetable Sheep (Raoulia eximia). Wikipedia

Quick Facts

Scientific NameRaoulia eximia
Height2–10 cm (0.8–4 in) tall cushions
SpreadUp to 1 m (3 ft) or more across
Water NeedsVery low; drought tolerant once established
LightFull sun; requires open, exposed sites
Frost ToleranceVery high; tolerates severe alpine frosts
Salt ToleranceVery low; not tolerant of salt or coastal exposure
Growth RateVery slow
LifespanLong-lived perennial (decades in suitable conditions)

Climate Suitability

CitySuitability
WhangāreiMarginal
AucklandMarginal
HamiltonMarginal
TaurangaMarginal
RotoruaMarginal
GisborneMarginal
New PlymouthMarginal
NapierMarginal
WhanganuiMarginal
Palmerston NorthMarginal
WellingtonMarginal
NelsonModerate
ChristchurchIdeal
DunedinIdeal
InvercargillIdeal

Growing

Soil

Requires very well-drained, rocky, or sandy soils. Avoid rich or heavy soils.

Light

Full sun and open, exposed sites are essential for healthy growth.

Water

Low water needs. Water only during extended droughts in cultivation.

  • Thrives in well-drained, rocky, or sandy soils
  • Prefers full sun and open, exposed sites
  • Tolerates drought and cold alpine conditions
  • Slow-growing and long-lived

Uses

  • Unique alpine ground cover for rock gardens and alpine houses
  • Valued for its unusual, sheep-like appearance
  • Important for alpine ecosystem stability and soil retention

Seasonal Care

Spring

  • Remove debris and check for winter damage

Summer

  • Water during extended droughts if cultivated

Autumn

  • Tidy up dead foliage

Winter

  • Protect from excessive wetness in lowland gardens

Pruning

Natural Habitat

Where Found

Raoulia eximia naturally occurs in:

  • Alpine and subalpine zones (1000-2000m)
  • Rocky outcrops and scree slopes
  • Areas with high wind exposure
  • Well-drained mountain slopes

Growing Conditions

  • Exposed to full sun and strong winds
  • Subject to snow cover in winter
  • Experiences extreme temperature fluctuations
  • Growing in mineral-poor substrates

Propagation

From Seed

  1. Collect seeds when ripe in late summer
  2. Sow fresh in autumn or spring
  3. Use well-draining alpine mix
  4. Keep cool and moist until germination

Division

  1. Carefully divide established plants in spring
  2. Ensure each division has roots
  3. Plant in gritty, well-draining mix
  4. Keep moist until established

Ecological Significance

Raoulia eximia plays important roles in alpine ecosystems:

Ecosystem Functions

  • Soil stabilization on mountain slopes
  • Microhabitat creation for invertebrates
  • Pioneer species in harsh environments
  • Indicator of alpine ecosystem health

Adaptations

  • Dense growth form for wind protection
  • Woolly covering reflects intense sunlight
  • Deep roots for stability
  • Efficient water conservation

Conservation Considerations

Threats

  • Climate Change: Warming temperatures may affect alpine habitat
  • Tourism Impact: Trampling in popular alpine areas
  • Habitat Loss: Development in alpine regions
  • Collection: Unauthorized removal from wild populations

While currently not threatened, Raoulia eximia requires protection of its alpine habitat for long-term survival.

Bonus Tip

For successful cultivation in lowland gardens, create a raised rock garden with sharp drainage and use gravel mulch to replicate the plant's natural alpine habitat. Position where it will receive maximum light but protection from excessive summer heat.

Cultural Significance

Symbolism and Folklore

Vegetable sheep are iconic in New Zealand’s alpine folklore and are a symbol of adaptation to extreme environments. Their unique form and survival strategy are celebrated in natural history and art.