Olearia axillaris - Coast Daisy Bush

Olearia axillaris - Coast Daisy Bush

Habit and Habitat:
Olearia axillaris, commonly known as Coast Daisy Bush, is a resilient and attractive shrub native to coastal regions of Australia. It thrives in sandy coastal dunes, cliffs, and heathlands, providing stability to coastal ecosystems.

Place in Local Habitat and Ecosystem Distribution:
Coast Daisy Bush plays a vital role in coastal habitats, helping to prevent soil erosion and providing food and habitat for native wildlife. It contributes to the biodiversity of coastal ecosystems and supports a variety of insects and birds.

Planting Companions:
In home gardens, Coast Daisy Bush pairs well with other native coastal plants such as Rounded Noonflower, Coastal Banksia (Banksia integrifolia), and tussock grasses. These companion plants create a visually appealing and ecologically harmonious garden landscape.

Human and Wildlife Uses:
Coast Daisy Bush has limited human uses but is valued for its ornamental beauty. The daisy-like flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators, contributing to the health of local ecosystems.

Care Instructions:
To cultivate Coast Daisy Bush successfully, choose a sunny to partially shaded location with well-draining soil. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance, requiring occasional watering during dry periods and minimal pruning to maintain its shape.

Size, Height, Width, Flower, and Leaf Characteristics:
Coast Daisy Bush typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters with a spread of 1 to 1.5 meters. Its foliage is green or grey-green, with cobwebby hairs, providing a striking contrast to the profusion of small, yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom in clusters from late autumn to spring.

Latin Etymology:
The genus name "Olearia" honors German botanist Johann Gottfried Olearius, while the species epithet "axillaris" refers to the flowers being borne in the leaf axils.

Traditional Uses:
Indigenous Australians have historically used various parts of the Coast Daisy Bush for traditional purposes, including medicinal applications and flavouring meat.

Planting Guidelines:
To plant Coast Daisy Bush in your home garden, ensure well-draining soil and provide adequate sunlight. Water newly planted specimens regularly until established, and mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.