Scientific Name: Olearia myrsinoides

Common Name: silky daisybush

Family Classification (Clade): Eudicots

Family: Asteraceae

Form Description: Much branched shrub with downy young shoots.

Height (m): 0.6 – 2

Flowers: Flower heads stalked, 1-3 together. Florets white or pinkish-purple 4-8, honey-scented.

Fruit: Achene without hairs, pappus-bristles cream or frequently pinkish-brown.

Municipality
Break O’DayCentral HighlandsDerwent ValleyDorsetGlamorgan-Spring BayKentishLatrobeLauncestonMeander ValleyNorthern MidlandsSouthern MidlandsWaratah-WynyardWest Coast
Plant Communities
No data available for this species
Habitat Notes

Widespread and locally frequent throughout the State from sea level to the Central Plateau.

Site Tolerance

Exposed, Moist, Windy

Soil Tolerance

Fertile, Loam, Nutrient-poor, Well-drained

General Notes

Bird attracting. Resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi.

Propagation Calendar

  • Flowering Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Seed Collecting Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Sowing Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Cutting Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Propagation Method
SeedCuttings

Seed Information

Seed Collection

When seed is mature the achenes loosen in the centre of the seed heads which appear fluffy. Collect seed heads into paper bags and allow to dry. Rub and sieve seed.

Seed Treatment Method

Surface Sow Sow seed finely on the surface of the potting mix and cover with just enough mix to hold the seed on the surface when watered.

Seed Storage Life

Short

Seed Treatment Notes

For best results fresh seed should be used. Surface sow or lightly cover. Has been used with some success for direct seeding. Olearia could be susceptible to mealy bug. Smoke may improve germination.

Germination Time

2-5 weeks

Cutting & Division Information

Can be propagated from cuttings.