New Zealand Daphne Pimelea prostrata
ABOUT
Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, is a distinct evergreen plant that exhibits a mat-like growth habit, sprawling as a dense carpet over the ground. This groundcover is characterized by its small, leathery, blue-green leaves that are closely packed along its stems, creating a tight-knit, cushioned appearance. The leaves may have a slightly domed shape and their arrangement on the stems gives a sense of texture and depth to the plant's foliage. Come spring and early summer, New Zealand Daphne showcases its beauty with delicate white to pale pink flowers that emerge in clusters at the tips of the branches. These flowers are tiny, tubular, and have a gentle, sweet fragrance which can add an aromatic allure to its surroundings. The blooms stand out against the greenery, looking like little stars scattered over the dense foliage mat. After flowering, the plant may produce small, inconspicuous fruits. However, it is primarily grown for its foliage and floral display, which contribute to its attractiveness in garden settings. This resilient groundcover can adapt to a range of conditions and is appreciated for its low-maintenance nature and the visual interest it adds to landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
New Zealand Daphne, Creeping Pimelea, Pinatoro
Common names
Pimelea simplex, Pimelea prostrata var. prostrata.
ToxicityTo humans
Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, is considered toxic if ingested. It contains diterpene orthoesters, which can cause severe poisoning. Symptoms of New Zealand Daphne poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weakness. In some cases, exposure to the skin can cause dermatitis. Severe cases of ingestion can potentially lead to more serious effects such as respiratory difficulties, muscle weakness, and in extreme instances, it may be fatal.
To pets
New Zealand Daphne is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests this plant, they may experience symptoms similar to those in humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to muscle tremors, seizures, respiratory problems, and it can even be fatal if left untreated. It is important for pet owners to prevent their animals from having access to this plant to avoid accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet (30 cm)
Spread
3 feet (1 meter)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, has attractive, dense foliage and small white flowers that can enhance garden aesthetics.
- Low maintenance: It is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Ground cover: Its prostrate growth habit allows it to spread across the ground, providing excellent coverage and helping to suppress weeds.
- Drought tolerance: New Zealand Daphne is relatively drought-tolerant, which makes it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in dryer climates.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers of Pimelea prostrata can attract beneficial insects to the garden, promoting biodiversity.
- Coastal resilience: Being native to New Zealand, it generally copes well with coastal conditions, including salt spray and sandy soils.
- Erosion control: Its spreading habit and ability to grow in various soil types help stabilize the soil, thus preventing erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental landscape feature: Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, is used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its lush foliage and attractive flowers.
- Ground cover: Its prostrate growth habit makes it suitable as a ground cover plant to prevent soil erosion and suppress weed growth.
- Rock gardens: New Zealand Daphne is ideal for rock gardens where its cascading growth can complement the stones and rugged layout.
- Seaside gardens: Being native to coastal areas, it is tolerant to salty winds, making it good for seaside garden planting.
- Butterfly gardens: The flowers of Pimelea prostrata can attract butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of butterfly gardens.
- Container planting: It can be grown in containers for patios or decks, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Living mulch: As a ground cover, it can act as a living mulch, providing soil insulation and moisture retention.
- Bonsai: Some enthusiasts may use Pimelea prostrata for bonsai due to its interesting form and branching structure.
- Ecological projects: It can be included in reforestation or ecological restoration projects to help re-establish native plant communities.
- Cultural significance: In its native region, New Zealand Daphne may be used in traditional cultural practices or ceremonies.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe New Zealand Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe New Zealand Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Transition and Adaptation: Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, grows in coastal areas, showcasing its ability to adapt to challenging environments. It symbolizes the resilience and adaptability required to thrive amidst change.
- Small Wonders: Due to its diminutive size, New Zealand Daphne represents an appreciation for the small and often overlooked beauties in life, reminding us to notice and cherish the little things.
- Purity and Innocence: The New Zealand Daphne's delicate white flowers can symbolize purity and innocence, reflecting the plant's unassuming presence and simplistic beauty that resonates with a sense of new beginnings and pure intentions.
WaterThe New Zealand Daphne should be watered moderately during its growing season, which is typically spring through summer. Ensure that the soil is kept moist, but not soggy; watering once every week with around 16 to 24 ounces of water should suffice. In the cooler months of fall and winter, reduce watering to every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure good drainage.
LightNew Zealand Daphne thrives in bright, indirect light. It is best positioned in a spot where it receives filtered sunlight, such as behind a sheer curtain or in an east-facing window where it will be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. Direct sunlight, especially during peak hours, can scorch the leaves, so avoid placing it in direct southern or western exposure.
TemperatureNew Zealand Daphne prefers moderate temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimal temperature drops, but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F, as it is sensitive to cold. Always protect the plant from drafts and ensure it is not placed near heating vents or air conditioners that can cause temperature fluctuations.
PruningPruning the New Zealand Daphne is done to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. Light pruning can be performed any time of the year, but the best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cutting back the tips of the stems once or twice a year will suffice. Always use clean, sharp shears to minimize damage to the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNew Zealand Daphne prefers well-draining soil with a mix of sand, peat, and loam, ensuring adequate aeration and moisture retention. The ideal soil pH for New Zealand Daphne is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingNew Zealand Daphne should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth, usually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingNew Zealand Daphne thrives in moderate humidity conditions, ideally between 50-70%; avoid overly dry or excessively humid environments that can stress the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place New Zealand Daphne in bright, indirect light inside.
Outdoor
Plant New Zealand Daphne in partial shade outside.
Hardiness zone
9-10 USDA
Life cyclePimelea prostrata, commonly known as New Zealand Daphne, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination develops a small root system and shoots that emerge as seedlings. These seedlings gradually grow into juvenile plants, exhibiting a ground-hugging growth habit typical of this species. As the plant matures, it forms a woody base with sprawling stems, and its distinctive small, blue-green leaves become more abundant. The adult New Zealand Daphne then enters its reproductive phase, producing clusters of tiny white flowers that attract pollinators, which are critical for successful pollination and seed production. After pollination, the flowers develop into small capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. These seeds are then dispersed by various means, such as wind or animal movement, ready to start the life cycle anew when they find a suitable environment for germination.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The Pimelea prostrata, commonly known as the New Zealand Daphne, is often propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take these cuttings is during the late summer months. A popular way to propagate the New Zealand Daphne is to cut a semi-hardwood stem that has mature leaves but is not too woody, typically measuring about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end dipped into a rooting hormone to enhance root development. Afterward, the cutting is planted in a mixture of potting soil and sand to provide good drainage and placed in a warm area with indirect sunlight. It's important to keep the soil moist, not wet, until the cutting establishes roots, which generally takes a few weeks. Once the plant shows growth, indicating that the roots have formed, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
