Tree daisy
brachyglottis greyi
Also known as: ["Senecio greyi","Rhubarb and custard"]
Overview
A hardy evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, known for its large, leathery leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Brachyglottis |
| Botanical Name: | Brachyglottis greyi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in coastal or mountainous regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be shaped but avoid heavy pruning on mature plants unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers bright light with some protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on outdoor vs. indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 8–10; tolerates temperatures down to -12°C (10°F) but thrives in mild climates with average temperatures between 10–25°C (50–77°F).
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings taken in summer root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote airflow and compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–5 cm wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become discolored or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in freezing temperatures; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute if liquid; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBrachyglottis greyi is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a risk of poisoning or adverse effects if ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBrachyglottis greyi is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBrachyglottis greyi is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Brachyglottis greyi toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Brachyglottis greyi attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: How much maintenance does Brachyglottis greyi require?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including occasional pruning and watering during dry spells.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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