Brachyglottis laxifolia aka New Zealand Daisy Bush

Brachyglottis laxifolia is moderately easy to grow once established in suitable conditions. It requires full sun and well-drained soil, and thrives in maritime climates with mild winters. The plant is low maintenance but benefits from heavy pruning after flowering to maintain shape. Hardy to about -10°C, it performs best in USDA zones 7-10.

Brachyglottis laxifolia prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season to maintain soil moisture, but ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging. Once established, the plant has some drought tolerance, though prolonged dry periods should be avoided. Mulching helps retain moisture while keeping roots cool.

Brachyglottis laxifolia is adaptable to various soil types including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, provided drainage is good. It tolerates a wide pH range from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline. In its native New Zealand habitat, it grows on limestone and marble substrates, indicating tolerance for alkaline conditions. Add organic matter and ensure good drainage for best results.

Brachyglottis laxifolia is hardy to approximately -10°C (14°F) and grows well in USDA zones 7-10. In its native New Zealand alpine habitat (1100-1600m elevation), it experiences frost and snow. The species thrives in mild maritime climates and performs best in coastal gardens of temperate regions. Protect from extreme cold in continental climates.

Brachyglottis laxifolia propagates readily from both seed and cuttings. Sow fresh seed in spring under glass with minimal soil coverage; transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost. For cuttings, take 5-8cm semi-hardwood cuttings with a heel in mid-summer (July-August) or mature wood cuttings in autumn (October-November). Overwinter cuttings in a cold frame and plant out in spring.

Brachyglottis laxifolia is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that typically reaches 1 meter in its native alpine habitat but can grow to 2 meters in height and spread when cultivated in favorable conditions. Growth is laxly-branched, creating an open, informal structure. As a windbreak hedge, it can eventually form a dense screen up to 1.8 meters tall, though this takes many years due to its slow growth rate.

Brachyglottis laxifolia produces attractive yellow daisy-like flowers in loose panicles. Each flower head measures approximately 2cm in diameter with 10-15 spreading ray florets. In its native New Zealand habitat, flowering occurs from December to February (Southern Hemisphere summer), with fruiting from January to March. In Northern Hemisphere cultivation, flowering typically occurs July to August, with seeds ripening August to September.

Brachyglottis laxifolia benefits from heavy pruning immediately after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage bushy growth. Remove dead or damaged growth as needed throughout the year. Without regular pruning, the plant develops a lax, open habit. For hedging purposes, more frequent trimming helps create a denser screen, though patience is required due to the slow growth rate.

Brachyglottis laxifolia thrives outdoors in mild, maritime climates and is hardy to USDA zones 7-10 (UK zone 8). It tolerates temperatures down to about -10°C and has excellent wind and salt tolerance, making it ideal for coastal gardens. The species performs best in full sun with well-drained soil. In colder continental climates, it may need winter protection or is best grown against a sheltered south-facing wall.

Brachyglottis laxifolia is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it may suffer from aphid infestations, particularly on new growth in spring. Powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Ensure good spacing and air flow around plants to minimize fungal issues. Otherwise, this is a robust and trouble-free shrub once established in suitable conditions.

Brachyglottis laxifolia is primarily valued as an ornamental shrub and for hedging purposes. It makes an excellent low-growing, wind-resistant hedge that eventually reaches 1.8 meters tall, particularly useful in exposed coastal gardens. Its attractive silvery-backed foliage and yellow daisy flowers add ornamental interest to the garden.

New Zealand Daisy Bush’s native range is New Zealand.

New Zealand Daisy Bush thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your New Zealand Daisy Bush.

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.