|
Family: Asteraceae
Native to: New Zealand
Dimensions: to 6 - 8' tall and wide, larger in cool coastal climates
Cold resistance: hardy to 12 - 15°F
Drought resistance: moderate
Key Features: grey-green evergreen toothed leaves, showy flowers, fast and easy to grow
Uses: ideal for coastal garden, wind exposure, deer resistant, back of border or screening, amenable to pruning
Description:
Named for a large-toothed Irishman of the O'Leary clan (at least that's what we like to think whether it's true or not), this very vigorous and showy daisy shrub indeed has large teeth along its leaf margins, looking vaguely like a grey-leafed holly, yet soft to the touch and not the least bit prickly. The leaves, however, are mostly obscured in June when this plant bursts into full bloom with huge heads of little white daisies. A popular hedge plant in coastal areas of Britain, it may reach 6 - 8' tall, and is perfect for breezy or exposed situations. It is moderately drought tolerant and prefers average to good drainage.
Two distinct clones of this plant are sometimes available from our nursery. The one I call the UW clone, since I got it from the Pat Calvert Greenhouse at the UW Arboretum, has slightly greener, larger, and glossier leaves. The other form is a little more grey. Both are showy in flower.
|
