Overview:
Olearia traversii, also known as Chatham Island Akeake, is a flowering evergreen tree that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to the Chatham Islands, located off the eastern coast of New Zealand's South Island.
Appearance:
The Chatham Island Akeake is a small, much-branched tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The leaves are small, narrow, and dark green with a silvery underside. Flowers appear in summer, and they are small, white with yellow centers and are clustered in panicles along the branches. The tree produces small fruits that have a fluffy, cotton-like appearance.
Uses:
The Chatham Island Akeake has cultural significance to the indigenous people of the Chatham Islands. The leaves and bark of the tree were traditionally used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, wounds, and colds. The plant is also commonly used as a hedge, shelterbelt, and for land restoration and erosion control projects. The tree is unique in its ability to tolerate harsh, windy coastal conditions.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as the Chatham Island Akeake, and its scientific name is Olearia traversii. Other names of the plant are New Zealand Akeake, Chatham Islands Daisy, and Chatham Islands Holly.
Light Requirements
Olearia traversii requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. However, it prefers full sun and may not flower well if grown in the shade. Direct sunlight helps to promote lush foliage growth and enhances the flowering process.
Temperature Requirements
Olearia traversii is suited to grow in cool to temperate climates. It can withstand cold and frosty conditions and is known to tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C. However, it cannot withstand long periods of drought or extreme heat. It prefers a cool and moist environment with temperatures ranging between 5°C and 20°C.
Soil Requirements
Olearia traversii grows best in well-drained and fertile soils. It can also tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should not get waterlogged as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Olearia traversii prefers a well-draining soil mix that contains compost and vermiculite or perlite. Plant the shrub in a location that receives full sunlight to partial shade.
It is best to transplant the young shrub after spring once frost danger has passed.
Watering needs
Olearia traversii prefers moist soil, and it is important to avoid allowing the soil to dry out. If the soil dries out, it can cause the plant's foliage to wilt. Water the plant deeply once a week, and more often during hot and dry periods, but do not overwater as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the shrub quarterly. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer that contains a blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 formula. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-fertilization or burning the roots.
Pruning
Prune the plant sparingly to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or dead branches. It is best to prune during the early spring before new growth appears. Do not prune more than 1/3 of the shrub's overall growth in one year.
Propagation of Olearia traversii
Olearia traversii can be propagated through a variety of methods including seed, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seed
Seeds of Olearia traversii can be collected from mature plants and sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and kept in a warm, humid environment. Germination can take up to four weeks and should occur at temperatures between 18-20°C.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from Olearia traversii in late spring or early summer. Semi-hardwood cuttings are recommended and should be taken from the current year's growth. Cuttings should be around 10cm in length and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Bottom heat can help to promote rooting and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they have established roots.
Propagation through Layering
Olearia traversii can be propagated through layering in the autumn. The branches of the plant should be bent down to the ground and a small wound should be made on the underside of the branch. The wound should be covered with soil and kept moist. After one year, the rooted branch can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Olearia traversii
Olearia traversii, also known as Chatham Island Akeake, is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to New Zealand with a bushy growth habit. While it is a relatively low-maintenance plant, it is still susceptible to a number of diseases and pests that can impact its health and appearance. Here are some of the most common issues and how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that appears as small, circular spots on the leaves. Over time, these spots can merge and cause the leaves to become yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, it's important to remove all affected leaves and branches and dispose of them in the trash (not compost). Keep the area around the plant clean and dry to prevent the spread of the fungus. You may also want to consider applying a fungicide labeled for use on Olearia traversii.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant and can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. It is often caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To manage root rot, make sure the soil around the plant is well-draining and not waterlogged. Reduce watering frequency and cut back any dead or diseased roots.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants and suck the sap. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and eventual dieback of the plant. To manage scale insects, you can try wiping them off with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. For severe infestations, you may need to use an insecticide labeled for use on scale insects.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, red or brown insects that spin webs on the leaves of plants. They can cause the leaves to yellow and look stunted. To manage spider mites, you can try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off the leaves. You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
By keeping an eye out for these common diseases and pests and taking proactive steps to manage them, you can help keep your Olearia traversii healthy and thriving.
