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Description
Olearia Fragrantissima, also known as the Daisy Bush, is a small evergreen shrub that is native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is highly valued for its attractive appearance and sweet fragrance. This plant produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The delicate flowers are white or pale pink, and they are surrounded by a ring of yellow-green foliage. The daisy bush can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, but it can be easily pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
The Olearia Fragrantissima is an attractive shrub that is highly valued for its sweet fragrance and delicate flowers. The leaves are a glossy, dark green color and are oval-shaped with a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are small, daisy-like, and have a sweet scent that attracts bees and butterflies. They bloom in late summer and early fall, and they are white or pale pink in color. The daisy bush can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, and it has a compact growth habit that makes it perfect for small gardens or containers.
Care Guide
The Olearia Fragrantissima is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of your Daisy Bush:
- Water: The Daisy Bush prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: The Daisy Bush does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
- Soil: The Daisy Bush prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy clay soils.
- Sunlight: The Daisy Bush prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: The Daisy Bush is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Daisy Bush is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and yellow. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and discolored. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Olearia Fragrantissima is native to New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal regions, forests, and mountains. It is well-suited to a range of environments and can thrive in both sunny and shaded areas. The Daisy Bush is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes in temperate regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Daisy Bush deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Daisy Bush is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Daisy Bush be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Daisy Bush can be grown in containers. Just make sure to use a well-draining potting mix and to water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I prune my Daisy Bush?
A: You can prune your Daisy Bush in the early spring to maintain its shape and size. You can also remove any dead or damaged branches at this time.
Q: How long does the Daisy Bush bloom?
A: The Daisy Bush blooms in late summer and early fall and can continue to bloom for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Olearia traversii
- Olearia solandri
- Olearia nummularifolia
- Olearia paniculata
References
- “Olearia Fragrantissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286845
- “Olearia Fragrantissima.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12453/Olearia-fragrantissima/Details
- “Olearia Fragrantissima.” San Francisco Botanical Garden. https://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/garden/bloom_08_08.shtml
