Olearia macrodonta

New Zealand Holly or Olearia “Macrodonta” is an evergreen shrub with very unique foliage. Its leaves are ovate in shape and have jagged, toothed edging. Also, the leaves are quite thick and leathery with the topside of the leaf being a dark green colour that contrasts with the underside which has felt-like texture and is of a grey to white colour.

One of the most pleasant aspects to this plant are the clusters of flowers which form on corymbs. These species of plants are often called “daisy bushes” because the flowers indeed resemble daisies and are about 1.5 cm across. Lovely, slender white petals encompass a central eyelet of yellow and with an overall pleasant aroma.

Their medium-sized, bushy habit makes them great for hedging and trellising along walls. Also, they do well in coastal areas, as they grow rapidly and are rejuvenated after a hard pruning.

Preferable planting areas include full sun and in winter time they will most likely need shelter from harsher winter winds. They are mostly hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -10°C. They can tolerate a variety of soil types as long as it drains well.