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Description
Olearia Townsonii is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly known as the ‘daisy bush.’ This evergreen shrub can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and 2 meters wide. It produces white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Olearia |
Appearance
Olearia Townsonii has an upright growth habit with a dense, bushy canopy. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, measuring up to 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. The undersides of the leaves are covered in fine, white hairs. The flowers are small, white, and daisy-like, with yellow centers. They bloom in late spring and early summer, and the scent is sweet and fragrant.
Care Guide
Olearia Townsonii is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
Soil: Plant your Olearia Townsonii in well-draining soil with a neutral pH level.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Olearia Townsonii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Olearia Townsonii is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, ensure that your plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Insects that may affect this plant include spider mites and aphids. Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
Olearia Townsonii is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in lowland forests, shrublands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate moderate levels of salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Olearia Townsonii tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I prune my Olearia Townsonii?
A: Prune your plant lightly in late spring or early summer to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth.
Q: Can Olearia Townsonii grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its size and provide good drainage.
Q: Does Olearia Townsonii attract bees?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Asteraceae family:
- Olearia Haastii
- Olearia Paniculata
- Olearia Solandri
- Olearia Traversii
References
- “Olearia Townsonii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. n.d. Web. 22 July 2021.
- “Olearia Townsonii.” Royal Horticultural Society. n.d. Web. 22 July 2021.
- “Olearia Townsonii.” The Plant List. n.d. Web. 22 July 2021.
