Olearia Pinifolia

Description

Olearia Pinifolia, commonly known as the pine-leaved daisy, is a species of shrub found in New Zealand. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its unique appearance and fragrant flowers. The plant is a hardy evergreen shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall with dark green leaves and small white or pink flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Olearia Pinifolia plant has a unique appearance with dark green, needle-like leaves that resemble pine needles. The leaves are around 5 cm long and 1 mm wide. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with white or pink petals and a yellow center. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide. The bark is brown and smooth, while the branches grow in an irregular pattern.

Care Guide

Olearia Pinifolia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:

Water:

Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter, as the plant is dormant during this time.

Fertilization:

Fertilize your plant in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can damage the plant.

Soil:

The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. If the soil is heavy, add sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Sunlight:

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate light shade but may not bloom as much in this condition.

Hardiness Zones:

The plant can grow in zones 8 to 10, withstanding temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Olearia Pinifolia is a relatively pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be affected by the following:

Pests:

• Aphids
• Spider Mites
• Scale Insects

Diseases:

• Leaf Spot
• Powdery Mildew
• Root Rot

Habitat

Olearia Pinifolia is native to New Zealand and can be found in rocky areas, coastal cliffs, and forests. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types and is drought-tolerant, making it a suitable plant for xeriscaping. It is also resistant to salt spray, making it ideal for coastal gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Olearia Pinifolia a good plant for beginners?

A: Yes, Olearia Pinifolia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care, making it an ideal plant for beginners.

Q: When should I prune my Olearia Pinifolia plant?

A: Prune your plant in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Olearia Pinifolia plant?

A: Fertilize your plant once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can I grow Olearia Pinifolia in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow Olearia Pinifolia in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.

Related Plants

• Olearia Cymbifolia
• Olearia Dartonii
• Olearia Furfuracea
• Olearia Hectori

References

• “Olearia Pinifolia.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network, n.d., www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/olearia-pinifolia/. Accessed 5 May 2021.
• “Olearia Pinifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society, n.d., www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15603/Olearia-pinifolia/Details. Accessed 5 May 2021.
• “Pine-leaved Daisy (Olearia Pinifolia).” Auckland Botanic Gardens, n.d., www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/plants/plant-detail/pine-leaved-daisy/. Accessed 5 May 2021.