Large-toothed Daisybush
olearia macrodonta
Also known as: ["Large-toothed Daisybush"]
Overview
A shrub native to Australia, characterized by its large-toothed leaves and daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Olearia |
| Botanical Name: | Olearia macrodonta |
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":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or 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 some direct morning sun but prefers shade from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade, especially in hot climates; indoors, place near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and sand; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced fertilizer for overall health.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist medium, cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, place in indirect light, and keep soil consistently moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, well-draining potting mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity to prevent wilting; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of individual stems rather than shearing the entire plant; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape the plant, clean up debris, dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (e.g., 2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh well-draining soil, water thoroughly, and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; this helps refresh the soil and provides more space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water after repotting, adjust light temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or browning of leaf edges; stunted growth or failure to flower.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl, turn brown, or drop; growth slows significantly; prolonged exposure can lead to dieback or death.
Solution: Move plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts and cold windows; cover with a frost cloth if outdoors in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil dries out quickly; increased risk of pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before applying, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Olearia macrodonta. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Olearia macrodonta can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOlearia macrodonta contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Olearia macrodonta toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Olearia macrodonta be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Olearia macrodonta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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