How to Grow Tree Daisy
iNaturalist
Tree Daisy
Olearia arborescens
shrubOlearia arborescens is a semi-evergreen to deciduous shrub native to New Zealand, valued for its abundant small white daisy-like flowers and attractive silvery-green foliage. It grows as an upright, bushy shrub that can reach 6-10 feet tall and makes an excellent ornamental specimen or hedge plant. The plant is relatively fast-growing and provides year-round interest with fragrant blooms in spring and summer.
When should you plant Tree Daisy in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Tree Daisy timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Tree Daisy
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Tree Daisy
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Tree Daisy dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-10, tolerating mild winters and coastal conditions
Sign up free to see if Tree Daisy grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Tree Daisy timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung transplant develops initial root system and begins putting on vegetative growth
Water regularly to establish roots. Protect from harsh winds and extreme heat in first season. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops sturdy branching structure with silvery-green foliage, no flowers yet
Prune lightly to shape and encourage bushiness. Continue consistent watering. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Pre-flowering
4-8 weeksBranch tips begin to form flower buds in late winter to early spring
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooming. Maintain adequate moisture and sunlight. Avoid heavy pruning that removes developing buds.
Flowering
8-12 weeksAbundant small white daisy-like flowers cover the plant, often fragrant, occurring spring through early summer
Continue moderate watering. Deadhead spent flowers to extend bloom period and encourage more flowering. Do not fertilize heavily with nitrogen.
Post-flowering
4-8 weeksFlowers fade, foliage remains attractive; plant may set seeds or be pruned back
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and size. Reduce watering slightly in late summer. This is the best time for rejuvenation pruning if needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation around plant
-
Increase humidity with misting; use miticide if severe; avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
-
Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil for heavy infestations
-
Prune out heavily infested branches; apply horticultural oil during dormant season
Uses
Ornamental Landscaping
HouseholdOlearia arborescens is prized as an ornamental shrub for gardens, providing year-round foliage and abundant spring-summer blooms. It works well as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, as a hedge or screen, and is particularly valuable in coastal gardens due to its wind and salt tolerance. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant small white flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an excellent addition to wildlife gardens and pollinator-focused landscapes. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftFlowering branches make attractive additions to fresh floral arrangements, providing delicate white blooms and interesting greenery that lasts well in water. [source]
Privacy Screening
HouseholdWhen grouped or planted closely, Olearia arborescens creates an attractive, semi-evergreen hedge or screen that provides wind and privacy screening while adding seasonal beauty. [source]
Harvest Tips
Olearia arborescens is an ornamental shrub not typically harvested for food or medicinal use. However, flowering branches can be cut for fresh arrangements during the blooming season (spring to early summer). Cut stems in the morning when flowers are fully open, and strip lower foliage before arranging.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Olearia arborescens is native to New Zealand and belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family, sharing its flowering structure with common garden daisies despite being a woody shrub.
- 🌱 This plant is notably salt and wind-tolerant, making it one of the best shrub choices for challenging coastal gardens where many other ornamentals struggle.
- 🌱 The common name 'Tree Daisy' reflects both its shrubby growth form and its abundant daisy-like flowers; some botanists call it the 'Mountain Daisy' or 'Rosemary Daisy' due to its fine, linear foliage.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Tree Daisy planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Tree Daisy seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Tree Daisy timeline →