Travers' Daisy-bush
olearia traversii
Also known as: ["Travers' Olearia"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, characterized by its leathery leaves and daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Olearia |
| Botanical Name: | Olearia traversii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil with added perlite or coarse sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun with acclimation; reduce light exposure in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from cold drafts in winter.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; softwood cuttings root more reliably than hardwood.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with plastic to retain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic wrap, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for root development after 3 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older stems; light shaping of new growth; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/diseased stems; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage tissues.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 28°F (-2°C); reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; increased water loss can lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOlearia traversii is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has no reported harmful effects when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicOlearia traversii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicOlearia traversii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has no reported adverse effects when handled or ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Olearia traversii suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is tolerant of coastal conditions and salt spray.
Q: How often should Olearia traversii be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Olearia traversii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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