Olearia lepidophylla - Daisy Bush

The Olearia lepidophylla is a small evergreen bush from Australia that is still relatively unknown but should appeal to enthusiasts of graphic and unusual plants. Composed of white and cottony branches with very discreet small leaves, it offers a silver-like vegetation. It is adorned with small flowers that can evoke snowflakes in summer, enhancing its charm. The Australian flora holds beautiful surprises for mild climates and seaside gardens. And this Olearia, very comfortable in dunes and well-draining soils, is undoubtedly part of it. It can also be grown in pots, bringing a graphic touch to the terrace or balcony during the summer.

The Olearia lepidophylla belongs to the family of Asteraceae. It is native to Western and Southern Australia, where it can be found on dunes and in low coastal hills, growing in sandy clay on a limestone substrate. It is a low bush, often wider than it is tall, reaching about 60 cm (24in) in height and 1m (3ft) in width, sometimes more depending on the growing conditions. Its dense vegetation consists of thin, ramified branches covered in white, glandulous tomentum. Its tiny leaves, less than 5 mm (1in) long and without petioles, are clustered on the stems and persist throughout winter. Flowering occurs from June to August, depending on the climate. It takes the form of small white capitula with a yellow center that turns pink-lilac, measuring 7 mm (1in) in diameter.

Hardy up to about -8°C (17.6°F), the Olearia lepidophylla will naturally find its place in a seaside garden where it will form a small protective screen. In a low hedge, it can be used in combination with other evergreen bushes such as Atriplex halimus, compact Leptospermum, Polygala myrtifolia, or myrtles, for example. Its silhouette pairs well with that of Melaleuca gibbosa and Eriostemon myoporides.