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Olearia macrodonta
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

New Zealand holly

A vigorous, evergreen upright shrub or small tree to 6m in height, with spiny-toothed, ovate, grey-green leaves, white-felted beneath, up to 9cm in length. Small, fragrant white flowers are borne in large clusters in summer

Synonyms
Olearia dentata
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver White
Summer White Green Grey Silver White
Autumn Green Grey Silver White
Winter Green Grey Silver White
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Olearia can be evergreen shrubs, small trees or herbaceous perennials, with simple, leathery, toothed or entire leaves and corymbs of daisy-like flower-heads

Name status

Correct

Plant range
New Zealand

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Pruning group 9

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)

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