Raoulia eximia
Raoulia eximia
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
Image credit: Vegetable Sheep (Raoulia eximia). Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Raoulia eximia |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–10 cm (0.8–4 in) tall cushions |
| Spread | Up to 1 m (3 ft) or more across |
| Water Needs | Very low; drought tolerant once established |
| Light | Full sun; requires open, exposed sites |
| Frost Tolerance | Very high; tolerates severe alpine frosts |
| Salt Tolerance | Very low; not tolerant of salt or coastal exposure |
| Growth Rate | Very slow |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial (decades in suitable conditions) |
Climate Suitability
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Marginal |
| Auckland | Marginal |
| Hamilton | Marginal |
| Tauranga | Marginal |
| Rotorua | Marginal |
| Gisborne | Marginal |
| New Plymouth | Marginal |
| Napier | Marginal |
| Whanganui | Marginal |
| Palmerston North | Marginal |
| Wellington | Marginal |
| Nelson | Moderate |
| Christchurch | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
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
- Minimal pruning required
- Remove dead or damaged stems as needed
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
- Collect seeds when ripe in late summer
- Sow fresh in autumn or spring
- Use well-draining alpine mix
- Keep cool and moist until germination
Division
- Carefully divide established plants in spring
- Ensure each division has roots
- Plant in gritty, well-draining mix
- 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.
Related Plants
Related Species
Raoulia australis
Raoulia australis – A closely related cushion plant found in similar habitats.
Raoulia subsericea
Raoulia subsericea – Another woolly alpine species, forming smaller cushions.
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.