New Zealand holly Olearia macrodonta

Water

For the New Zealand Holly, it's important to establish a consistent watering routine. Initially, water young plants deeply to encourage deep root growth, providing about 1 gallon per week, depending on weather conditions. Once established, they require less water and should be fine with natural rainfall in most climates. During dry spells, water thoroughly every two weeks. Always check the soil moisture before watering; the top inch should be dry to the touch, indicating it's time to water again.

Light

New Zealand Holly thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, although it can tolerate some light shade. Ensure it's planted away from densely shaded areas for optimal growth and flowering.

Temperature

New Zealand Holly can withstand a wide range of temperatures but performs best in climates with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. They are hardy and can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F, making them suitable for temperate regions. Avoid locations where temperatures consistently fall below this range, as frost can cause damage.

Pruning

New Zealand Holly should be pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Prune lightly, removing any dead or damaged branches and shaping the plant as desired. Pruning once a year is typically enough for this hardy shrub.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

New Zealand Holly thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). A mix of loam, compost, and coarse sand in equal parts creates an ideal environment for its roots. Regular organic matter amendments promote healthy growth.

Repotting

New Zealand Holly should be repotted every 2-3 years to prevent root-bound conditions and to replenish the soil. Choose a slightly larger pot to allow for growth, and repot in spring before new growth begins.

Humidity & Misting

New Zealand Holly is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity. Normal room humidity is typically sufficient, while avoiding excessively dry or overly humid conditions that could lead to stress or fungal issues.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide sunlight, use well-draining soil, avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, shelter from strong winds, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

The Olearia macrodonta, also known as New Zealand Holly, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after dispersal, germinates when conditions are suitable, typically needing well-drained soil and enough light. The seedling then emerges and grows into a juvenile plant, developing its characteristic silvery-green leaves and robust, woody stem. As it matures into an adult, the Olearia macrodonta produces clusters of fragrant, daisy-like white flowers during summer, which are attractive to a variety of pollinators such as bees. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small, dry fruits that contain seeds, which when mature, are dispersed by wind to begin a new generation. The plant goes through a growth phase each year, adding new leaves and stems, and may undergo seasonal dieback in colder climates, only to resprout in spring. The New Zealand Holly can live for many years, forming a substantial shrub or small tree, completing its life cycle when it eventually senesces and dies.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Olearia macrodonta, commonly known as the New Zealand Holly, is via semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically takes place in the summer when mature, current season's growth has started to harden off. To propagate New Zealand Holly from semi-hardwood cuttings, you should select a healthy branch and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring there are several leaf nodes. The lower leaves are then stripped off, and the cut end of the stem can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting should be inserted into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting mix to just below the first set of leaves. The pot needs to be kept moist and in a warm but shaded spot until roots develop, which can take several weeks. A plastic bag or propagator can help maintain humidity. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots.