New Zealand Carpet Daisy
raoulia australis
Also known as: ["Raoulia australis","New Zealand Carpet Daisy"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with small, fleshy leaves and yellow daisy-like flowers, native to New Zealand.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Raoulia |
| Botanical Name: | Raoulia australis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or container in a sunny, sheltered position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C, tolerates frost down to -10°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with direct sunlight tolerance; adjust to partial shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest possible location indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day in summer; ensure unobstructed light exposure.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with low organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix designed for succulents.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F / 10–18°C); tolerates frost but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Use a cactus-specific fertilizer; apply sparingly to avoid salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lockout.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F / 18–24°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (60–70%) for initial rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged stems at the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead growth; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; blackened leaves or stem rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage or death if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop sunburn spots; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but still allow soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRaoulia australis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known substances that would be harmful to felines if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThere are no documented cases of toxicity in dogs from consuming Raoulia australis. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRaoulia australis, commonly known as the New Zealand Carpet Daisy, is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Raoulia australis suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and drought tolerance.
Q: How often should Raoulia australis be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Raoulia australis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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