Olearia paniculata aka Akiraho

Olearia paniculata, known as akiraho, is an evergreen from New Zealand. It belongs to the daisy family, Asteraceae. It forms a large, upright shrub or a small tree. The RHS gives a garden height of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its shorter account describes plants reaching 20 feet [6 metres]. The spread is about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Plants take around 10–20 years to reach their full size.

The leaves stay on the plant through the year. Their shape ranges from elliptic to oval-oblong, with wavy edges. They grow up to 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] long. The upper surface shines and has a soft olive-green tone. Fine, soft hairs cover the underside in buff or silver. Dark brown, felt-like hairs cover the young shoots. These leaf and shoot traits give the plant much of its interest.

Small, dull white flowerheads appear in autumn and early winter. Each head measures about 0.02 feet [0.006 metres] across. The flowers do not stand out much among the leaves. Their scent is more striking than their colour or size. The plant therefore offers both evergreen leaves and late-season fragrance. Its upright shape suits gardens where a tall screen is useful.

Grow it in full sun with soil that drains well. The RHS lists chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Soil may stay moist, but it must allow water to drain. South-facing and west-facing sites suit it. It can grow in exposed or sheltered sites. Its resistance to sea winds makes it useful near coasts. The RHS rates it H4, while PFAF lists USDA zones 8–11.

Use it as a hedge, screen or coastal windbreak. The RHS also lists borders, courtyard gardens and informal gardens. It needs little routine care and may need no pruning. Raise new plants from seed or summer semi-ripe cuttings. Heeled hardwood cuttings are another option in early autumn. Pests and diseases seldom cause trouble, though honey fungus can occur. PFAF records no known edible or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards, but that does not establish safety for eating.