Brachyglottis rotundifolia aka Muttonbird Scrub
Taxonomy ID: 11400
Brachyglottis rotundifolia is an evergreen shrub from New Zealand. It belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family. The RHS calls it muttonbird scrub. Older names include Senecio rotundifolius and Senecio reinoldii. Kew records its native range as South Island and the Solander Islands. Plants For A Future also records it on Stewart Island. Its habitat extends from coastal scrub into higher ground. There, it reaches elevations of about 3,280 feet [1,000 metres].
This woody plant keeps its leaves throughout the year. Plants For A Future gives a height of 20 feet [6 metres]. Kew describes its form as either a shrub or tree. Growth is slow, so a hedge takes time to fill out. The supplied species evidence gives no mature width. It also lacks details on bark, leaf shape, and fruit. Flowers appear from June to July in the cited account. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry pollen between the flowers.
Grow this species in full sun, not shade. It needs soil that drains well but stays moist. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils all suit it. Its tolerance of sea exposure makes coastal sites an option. Cold limits its use more than exposure does. Plants For A Future reports survival down to about 23°F [−5°C]. In Britain, it recommends outdoor growth only in the mildest areas. It also lists USDA zones 8–11.
A windbreak hedge is one supported garden use. Plants For A Future advises leaving this hedge untrimmed. The evergreen growth provides cover through the year. Seed and cuttings offer ways to raise new plants. Sow seed under glass in spring with a thin covering. Keep young seedlings under glass through their first winter. Set them outside after the last expected frost. Half-ripe cuttings can be taken in July or August. Mature wood cuttings are another option in October or November. Protect rooted cuttings through winter before planting in late spring.
Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. It also reports no known hazards. That does not establish safety for people or pets. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases. Plants For A Future does not flag weed potential.
Common names
Muttonbird Scrub, Cineraria Rotundifolia, Senecio Puffini, Senecio Reinoldi, Senecio Reinoldii Ambiguus, Senecio Reinoldii Reinoldii, Senecio Rotundifolius Ambiguus, Senecio Rotundifolius Rotundifolius, PuheretaikoMore information about Muttonbird Scrub
What is the region of origin of Muttonbird Scrub
What are the water needs for Muttonbird Scrub
What is the sunlight requirement for Muttonbird Scrub
Is Muttonbird Scrub toxic to humans/pets?
Sources
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