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Description
Olearia Cheesemanii is a species of shrub that is native to New Zealand. It is a hardy plant that can grow up to 6 meters in height and 2 meters in width. This shrub produces small white flowers that bloom in early summer and fall. It is commonly known as “Cheeseman’s Tree Daisy”, named after Thomas F. Cheeseman, a renowned botanist who first discovered the plant in the early 1900s.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
Olearia Cheesemanii has a dense and bushy habit with dark green leaves that are 4-6 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The leaves are leathery and have a glossy surface. The shrub produces small white flowers that are 1-2 cm in diameter and have yellow centers. The flowers bloom in early summer and fall and are followed by small, fluffy seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Olearia Cheesemanii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Olearia Cheesemanii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: Olearia Cheesemanii is hardy to USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olearia Cheesemanii is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some common garden pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plant to weaken and become stunted. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can also suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry up. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to develop on the leaves, stems, and flowers, leading to poor growth and flowering. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the roots becoming waterlogged and rotting. It can be prevented by ensuring the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatered.
Habitat
Olearia Cheesemanii is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, lowland forests, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. This plant is adapted to a maritime climate with mild temperatures and high rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Olearia Cheesemanii a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Olearia Cheesemanii is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full size.
Q: Can Olearia Cheesemanii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Olearia Cheesemanii can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization to maintain healthy growth.
Q: Does Olearia Cheesemanii require pruning?
A: Olearia Cheesemanii does not require regular pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: How often should I fertilize Olearia Cheesemanii?
A: Olearia Cheesemanii should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Olearia paniculata
- Olearia solandri
- Olearia traversii
- Olearia virgata
References
- de Lange, P. J., et al. (2010). Conservation status of New Zealand indigenous vascular plants, 2010. New Zealand Threat Classification Series 2. Department of Conservation, Wellington.
- Heenan, P. B. (2001). The Olearia Cheesemanii complex (Asteraceae: Astereae): a new species segregated from O. solandri s.l. New Zealand Journal of Botany, 39(3), 445-451.
- Wilson, H. D. (2006). A conservation manual for the threatened plants of New Zealand. Department of Conservation, Wellington.
