Olearia macrodonta
New Zealand Holly
Overview
Olearia macrodonta is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing 6–20 feet (2–6 m) tall and 6–15 feet (2–4.5 m) wide, with an upright, densely branched habit. The holly-like leaves measure 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long, with wavy, sharply toothed margins, a sage-green to grey-green upper surface, and a white to silvery felted underside. Crushed foliage releases a musky scent. In early to mid summer the shrub carries broad, flattened clusters of small daisy flowers, each about 0.3 inch (8 mm) across with white rays and a reddish-brown centre; the clusters reach 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) wide. The species grows wild on forest margins and rocky slopes in the South Island of New Zealand and withstands coastal wind and salt spray, and is grown as a shelter and hedging plant in mild maritime climates. Hardiness extends to about 10–14°F (−10 to −12°C), placing it in USDA zones 8–9; in colder or inland areas it suffers foliage burn and stem damage from hard frost and cold drying winds. Growth is moderately fast, and plants respond to trimming. Flowering is followed by small tufted seed heads typical of the daisy family.
Native Range
Olearia macrodonta is endemic to New Zealand, where it occurs on the South Island and the lower North Island along forest margins, stream banks, and rocky hillsides from lowland to montane elevations.Suggested Uses
Olearia macrodonta is used as an evergreen hedge, windbreak, and screen in coastal and mild gardens. It also grows as a freestanding shrub or small tree in mixed borders. The salt and wind tolerance suits seaside plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 20'
Width/Spread6' - 15'
Colors
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in early to mid summer, usually June to July in the Northern Hemisphere. The white daisy flowers are held in broad clusters above the foliage for about 3–4 weeks. A faint sweet scent accompanies the bloom. Seed heads with small tufts follow and persist into autumn.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White with reddish-brown centreFoliage Description
Grey-green above, white beneathGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow Olearia macrodonta in full sun to light shade in moist but well-drained soil; it accepts a wide range of soils including poor and chalky ground. Once established it tolerates drought, coastal salt, and wind, and is grown for shelter in exposed maritime gardens. Cold, drying inland winds and hard frost cause leaf scorch and dieback, so it is grown in mild climates within zones 8–9. Established plants need little feeding. Watering helps during the first two seasons and in prolonged drought on light soils. The species is generally free of serious pests, though waterlogged soil leads to root problems.Pruning
Trim Olearia macrodonta after flowering to maintain a hedge or compact shape; it tolerates regular clipping. Unlike many evergreens it can be cut back into older wood, from which it usually resprouts. Overgrown plants are renovated by harder pruning in spring.Pruning Schedule
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summer