Pachystegia insignis

RHS Plant Profile
Marlborough rock daisy

Synonyms

Olearia insignis

Shrubs

A low-growing evergreen shrub, spreading wider than high, rarely more than 1m in cultivation. Young shoots and stems are thickly clad in white or pale brown felting, though the simple, ovate leaves, which are 7-12cm long, become glossy dark green above when they mature. Flowerheads are solitary, borne on stalks 10-20cm long from shoot tips or upper leaf axils. The heads are daisy-like, to 7cm across, with pure white ray florets surrounding a dense yellow disc, surrounded by a striking egg-shaped felted involucre

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Pachystegia are relatively dwarf evergreen shrubs that originate from New Zealand. They were previously included within Olearia
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
New Zealand (S.Island)

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold, drying winds

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally problem free