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Description
Olearia Lacunosa, also known as the New Zealand Holly, is a beautiful plant with white daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer. Native to New Zealand, this evergreen shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The leaves are small, glossy, and dark green with a slightly serrated edge. The plant is often used as a hedge or screen due to its dense foliage and growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
Olearia Lacunosa has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are slightly serrated. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with a dense, bushy growth habit. The white daisy-like flowers bloom in late summer and can be up to 2 inches in diameter. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and attract bees and butterflies. The plant is evergreen, so it retains its foliage throughout the year.
Care Guide
Olearia Lacunosa is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and should be watered deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate acidic or alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: Olearia Lacunosa prefers full sun to partial shade, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olearia Lacunosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Fungal Diseases: These can include powdery mildew or leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Olearia Lacunosa is native to New Zealand and thrives in colder climates. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate windy conditions. The plant is often used as a hedge or screen due to its dense foliage and growth habit.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Olearia Lacunosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its growth.
Q: How often should I prune my Olearia Lacunosa?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant can also be lightly pruned after blooming to maintain its shape.
Q: Does Olearia Lacunosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s sweet fragrance attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Olearia Lacunosa tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the plant is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas.
Related Plants
- Olearia Haastii
- Olearia Macrodonta
- Olearia Nummularifolia
- Olearia Traversii
References
- “Olearia Lacunosa.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=2308
- “Olearia Lacunosa.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/49992/Olearia-lacunosa/Details
- “Olearia Lacunosa.” Pacific Horticulture. www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/olearia-lacunosa/
