291B-2-Olearia-erubescens-fl-2-Marilyn-Gray-1.jpg

Olearia erubescens

Moth Daisy-bush

Small wiry spreading shrub with reddish new growth. Branchlets and under leaves covered in whitish hairs.

Additional information

  • FamilyAsteraceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size1-1.5 m x 1-2 m
  • Plant groupingShrubs to 2m
  • LeavesStiff, pointed oblong leaves 12-55 mm x 3-15 mm. Upper surface dark green with prominent network of veins. Margins have sharply pointed teeth.
  • Flower colourWhite
  • Flowering timeSeptember to December
  • FlowersLeafy bunches of daisy flowerheads to 30 mm across on stalks 1-4 cm long, at or near the ends of branchlets. 4-8 ray florets per flowerhead.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsWell drained soil, including rocky situations, in woodland and drier forests of the foothills and mountains. Full sun to partial shade.
  • Garden useWell displayed flowers. Suits small gardens and embankments, reddish new growth contrasts with white flowers and dark green foliage. Will tolerate dry soils once established.
  • Commercially availableRarely
  • Conservation statusWidespread within the Shire
  • Related speciesSimilar to Olearia myrsinoides which has broader and blunter leaves with finely toothed margins and few ray florets on short stalks.
Photographer/s: 1, 2 Marilyn Bull ©; 3 Peter Kinchington ©

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