Bidgee Widgee
acaena novae-zelandiae
Also known as: ["New Zealand Bur Bramble","Pins and Needles"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb native to New Zealand, known for its small, fern-like leaves and bur-like fruits that cling to clothing and animal fur.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","ground cover","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Acaena |
| Botanical Name: | Acaena novae-zelandiae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, ground cover in sunny areas, or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of runners.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcaena novae-zelandiae is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAcaena novae-zelandiae is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAcaena novae-zelandiae is not known to be toxic to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acaena novae-zelandiae invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions due to its ability to spread rapidly via its bur-like fruits.
Q: How does it propagate?
A: It spreads through seeds dispersed by its bur-like fruits that attach to animals and clothing, as well as by rhizomes.
Q: What are its uses?
A: It is often used as a ground cover in landscaping, particularly in rock gardens or areas with poor soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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