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Description
Olearia Moschata, also known as the Musk Daisy Bush, is a hardy evergreen shrub native to Australia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant is characterized by its grey-green leaves and daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and white petals. It produces a sweet musky scent, which is where the name Musk Daisy Bush comes from.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
Olearia Moschata has an attractive appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens. The leaves are grey-green and smooth, measuring around 5cm in length. The flowers are daisy-like with a yellow center and white petals that bloom in spring and summer. The plant produces a sweet musky scent, especially in warm weather. As it ages, the bark becomes rough and grey, adding another layer of visual interest.
Care Guide
Olearia Moschata is easy to care for and can thrive in various conditions. Here is a detailed guide on how to care for this Australian native plant:Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and late summer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soils.Sunlight: Olearia Moschata prefers full sun or partial shade. If planting in a sunny area, it is essential to provide adequate moisture.Hardiness Zones: Olearia Moschata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olearia Moschata is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. To avoid this, ensure that the soil has good drainage. Aphids can also be an issue, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Olearia Moschata is native to Australia, where it grows in coastal areas, woodlands, and heathlands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions. The plant can also thrive in urban environments and is commonly used in landscaping projects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Olearia Moschata a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While the plant can tolerate periods of drought, it prefers consistent moisture and should be watered regularly.Q: How often should I fertilize Olearia Moschata?
A: Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and late summer.Q: Can Olearia Moschata grow in sandy soil?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in sandy soil as long as it is well-draining and has adequate moisture.Q: How tall can Olearia Moschata grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 2 meters in height.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Olearia Moschata:- Olearia phlogopappa- Olearia argophylla- Olearia axillaris- Olearia macrodonta
References
– “Olearia Moschata.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed August 25, 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/o-mos.html.- “Olearia Moschata.” Gardening with Angus. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/olearia-moschata-musk-daisy-bush/.
