Olearia ilicifolia aka Maori Holly

Olearia ilicifolia is an evergreen shrub or small tree from New Zealand. Its common names include mountain holly and New Zealand holly. It belongs to Asteraceae, the daisy family. Its native habitat includes forest and scrub, from lowlands to subalpine sites. It grows on North, South and Stewart Islands. Its range extends south from about 38°S on North Island.

The plant forms a bushy crown with spreading branches. The RHS gives a garden height and width of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Its brief description gives a lower height of 10 feet [3 metres]. Plants reach their mature size in about five to ten years. The leaves stay on the plant year-round. They are oval and leathery, with spiny edges and a grey-green tone. Clusters of white, daisy-like flowers open in summer. The blooms have a scent.

Grow this shrub in full sun and soil that drains well. The RHS lists chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. It tolerates drought and can grow in dry to moist ground. Both exposed and sheltered sites suit it. South-, west- and east-facing positions are suitable. The RHS rates it H4 for UK conditions. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10. Its strong tolerance of sea winds makes it useful near coasts.

This plant can form a hedge, screen or windbreak. It also suits courtyards, gravel gardens and informal flower borders. The RHS includes it among plants for low-maintenance and wildlife gardens. Let a freestanding plant keep its natural shape. To limit size, prune after flowering. Remove one-third to one-half of the previous year's growth. It can recover from hard pruning by making growth near its base. Plants For A Future favours leaving windbreak hedges untrimmed. Take softwood or semi-ripe cuttings from summer into autumn. Hardwood cuttings are another option in winter.

Pests and diseases seldom cause trouble, according to the RHS. Honey fungus can occur, though the source describes this as rare. Plants For A Future records no known edible or medicinal uses. It also reports no known hazards. That record does not establish that any part is safe to eat. Its documented value lies in shelter, evergreen cover and scented summer flowers.