Olearia is a genus of evergreen shrubs native to Australia and New Zealand. These stunning plants are known for their attractive foliage, as well as their showy flowers that bloom in spring or summer. Olearia is a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of color and texture to their landscapes.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
The foliage of Olearia is usually grayish-green or silver, and is often covered in tiny hairs that give it a soft, velvety texture. The leaves are typically narrow and elongated, and may be either smooth or slightly serrated along the edges. The flowers of Olearia are usually daisy-like, with white, pink, or purple petals that surround a central disk of yellow or brown.
Olearia comes in a variety of sizes, from small shrubs that grow to only a few feet tall, to larger specimens that can reach heights of up to 20 feet. Some varieties of Olearia are also prized for their attractive bark, which may be smooth or peeling in texture.
Care Guide
Olearia is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is well-suited to many different types of growing conditions. Here are some basic care tips to keep in mind:
Water
Olearia prefers moist but well-draining soil, and should be watered regularly during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Olearia does not require a lot of fertilizer, but a light feeding in the spring can help encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Soil
Olearia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost or other organic material to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Olearia prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
Olearia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11, although some varieties may be more cold-tolerant than others.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olearia is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it may be susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that may cluster on the leaves and stems of Olearia. They can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that may infest the leaves of Olearia, causing them to yellow and drop. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect Olearia if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, make sure your plant is growing in well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Olearia is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, from coastal cliffs to alpine meadows. It is well-adapted to these rugged environments, and is known for its ability to withstand harsh winds and salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Olearia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Olearia can be successfully grown in containers, as long as you choose a well-draining potting mix and provide it with regular water and fertilizer.
Q: How often should I prune my Olearia?
A: Olearia generally does not require a lot of pruning, but you can shape it as needed in the late winter or early spring. If your plant has become overgrown or leggy, you can cut it back hard in the early spring to encourage new growth.
Q: Are there any varieties of Olearia that are particularly fragrant?
A: Yes, some varieties of Olearia, such as O. argophylla and O. cassiniana, are prized for their fragrant foliage.
Q: How do I propagate Olearia?
A: Olearia can be propagated from seed or by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or early summer. Hardwood cuttings can also be taken in the late fall or winter.
Related Plants
- Aster tenuifolius
- Chrysanthemum frutescens
- Coreopsis verticillata
- Echinacea purpurea
- Helenium autumnale
- Rudbeckia hirta
References
- “Olearia.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 13 July 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2005/olearia-spp.html.
- “Olearia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 13 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/24660/olearia/Details.
- “Olearia.” The Spruce. Accessed 13 July 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/olearia-plant-profile-5075711.
