Daisy Bush Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael'
ABOUT
Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael', commonly known as Daisy Bush, is an ornamental garden plant with a notable appearance, primarily due to its attractive foliage and showy flower clusters. The leaves of the Daisy Bush are typically small, glossy, and have a leathery texture, which adds to the plant's aesthetic appeal. They are often dark green, providing a lush backdrop for the flowers. The Daisy Bush blooms profusely, bearing numerous daisy-like flower heads that cover the plant and create a stunning display. These flowers are generally white, sometimes exhibiting a slight hint of pink, and they have a yellow disk at the center. The petals are arranged in a radial pattern, resembling the classic daisy form which is popular among garden enthusiasts for its simple yet charming look. The flowering period of the Daisy Bush is usually in spring, when the plant becomes a focal point due to its abundant blooms. The combination of its lush foliage and ample floral display makes the Daisy Bush a popular choice for garden borders, hedges, and as a specimen plant in landscape designs. Despite the exclusion of specific measurements, the appearance of this plant is impactful and can turn a garden space into a vibrant and tranquil haven with its elegant form and lively flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Scilly Aster, Hybrid Aster
Common names
Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael'.
ToxicityTo humans
There is limited information on the specific toxicity of Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael', commonly known as Daisy Bush, to humans. As for many ornamental plants, it is generally considered that they should not be ingested. Without specific toxin information for this cultivar of Daisy Bush, it is prudent to avoid consuming any part of the plant. If a person ingests Daisy Bush and exhibits symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or allergic reactions, it is important to seek medical attention.
To pets
The toxicity of Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael', commonly known as Daisy Bush, to pets such as cats and dogs is not well documented. However, it is usually safe to assume that ornamental plants like Daisy Bush should not be ingested by pets. If a pet were to eat parts of the Daisy Bush, there is potential for gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions. Without specific toxicity data, if your pet shows any signs of distress after consuming the plant, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or changes in behavior, contacting a veterinarian immediately would be advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
3 feet 3 inches (1 meter)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meter)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of this plant can attract bees and butterflies, which can enhance pollination in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Olearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael' is known for being relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and care.
- Drought Tolerant: It has good drought tolerance, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for more water-efficient landscaping.
- Wind Resistant: The bushy habit and sturdy nature of the shrub make it resistant to damage from strong winds, often used as a windbreak in coastal areas.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its attractive foliage and daisy-like flowers, it adds aesthetic value to gardens, public spaces, or as a decorative hedge.
- Fast Growing: This plant grows relatively quickly, which can be beneficial when trying to establish a garden or landscape area in a short period of time.
- Coastal Suitable: It is particularly well-suited to coastal conditions, tolerating salt spray and sandy soils, which are common near the sea.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Olearia 'Master Michael' can be used as a natural fence or border due to its dense growth habit, providing privacy and reducing noise pollution.
- The resilient nature of the Olearia 'Master Michael' makes it a suitable option for coastal landscaping, as it can withstand salt spray and sandy soils.
- As an ornamental plant, Olearia 'Master Michael' is great for creating contrasting textures in gardens because of its glossy green leaves and daisy-like flowers.
- Because of its tidy growth form, this plant can be used in formal garden designs to create structured looks and hedges with minimal maintenance required.
- The flowers of Olearia 'Master Michael' are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.
- In larger gardens or parks, this plant can be used to create windbreaks that protect more delicate plants from strong winds.
- When planted en masse, Olearia 'Master Michael' serves as an erosion control agent on slopes and banks due to its root system stabilizing the soil.
- This plant's ability to thrive in full sun makes it a go-to option for creating sunny garden spots with extended bloom times.
- The compact size and shape of Olearia 'Master Michael' can be used in container gardens for patios or balconies where ground planting is not possible.
- Gardeners can employ this plant in themed gardens, such as white gardens, to harmonize with other white-flowering plants and create a serene, monochromatic effect.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daisy Bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daisy Bush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience and adaptability - Olearia, or "Daisy Bush," as this plant is often referred to, is known for its ability to withstand tough conditions such as wind and salt spray. This can symbolize a person's ability to adapt and remain steadfast in challenging situations.
- Transformation and renewal - The Daisy Bush can regenerate and bloom annually, representing the idea of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Purity and innocence - The daisy-like flowers of the Olearia are traditionally associated with these qualities in many cultures, reflecting a sense of simplicity and virtue.
- Healing - Historically, some daisies have been used for medicinal purposes. This can symbolize healing and the soothing of emotional or physical pain.
- Protection - Plants in the daisy family often carry meanings of protection due to their hardy nature, suggesting a shield against negativity or harm.
WaterDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' prefers consistent moisture but does not do well with waterlogged soil, so it's essential to ensure good drainage. Water the plant deeply about once a week during the growing season, adjusting the frequency based on weather conditions—more frequent watering during dry spells and less during cooler, rainy periods. An approximate amount would be 1-1.5 gallons per week for an established shrub, although newly planted shrubs may require water more often until their root systems develop. During the winter months, reduce watering significantly, as the plant will be dormant and require less moisture.
LightDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot for this plant is where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, in regions with very hot summers, the plant will benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from the most intense sunlight.
TemperatureDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures but does best in moderate climates. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 20°F but ideally, should be grown in areas where temperatures range between 50°F and 70°F for optimal growth and flowering. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, should be avoided to maintain plant health.
PruningPruning the Daisy Bush 'Master Michael' is important to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged branches. Prune the bush in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This is also the time to cut back any overgrown branches or to shape the plant. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to remove spent flowers and to encourage a second bloom.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' thrives in well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, peat, and sand, creating an airy substrate. The ideal soil pH for Daisy Bush should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' does not typically require frequent repotting; do it every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot to ensure continued growth.
Humidity & MistingDaisy Bush 'Master Michael' prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable; a range of 40-75% is satisfactory.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleOlearia × scilloniensis 'Master Michael', commonly known as Daisy Bush, begins its life cycle with seed germination, usually occurring in a well-draining, sunny location. After germination, the seedling goes through a juvenile phase, establishing a root system and producing its first leaves. As it enters the vegetative growth stage, it develops a bushy structure with thick, leathery leaves and begins to mature. Once mature, the Daisy Bush enters the flowering stage, marked by the appearance of clusters of daisy-like flowers, typically in the spring and summer. After pollination, which is often assisted by insects, the plant produces small seeds that are dispersed by wind or wildlife, enabling the cycle to begin anew. In the plant's final stage, senescence, the Daisy Bush experiences a decline in physiological functions leading to the end of its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Daisy Bush 'Master Michael' can be effectively propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from the plant that includes part of the current or last season's growth, which has not yet fully matured and hardened. The ideal time for this is late summer to early fall. The cutting, typically 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long, should be taken from a healthy part of the plant, making a clean cut just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then inserted into a pot filled with well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the leaf nodes are covered by soil. The pot needs to be kept in a warm environment with high humidity and indirect light until roots have formed, which can take several weeks. Regular misting helps maintain the necessary humidity.
