Daisy Bush

Olearia x haastii is an incredibly tough, evergreen shrub that is a cornerstone for coastal Mediterranean-style gardens in the UK. It features small, leathery, dark green leaves with silvery-white undersides, forming a dense, rounded mound that works perfectly as a low hedge or a structural shrub. In mid to late summer, it is almost completely obscured by a mass of small, fragrant, daisy-like white flowers with yellow centres. The scent is often compared to hawthorn or honey. This plant is exceptionally salt-tolerant and wind-resistant, making it ideal for gardens near the sea. It is also remarkably drought-tolerant once established. It is hardy to H4/H5, making it suitable for most UK gardens. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. If it becomes leggy, it can be pruned back hard in spring to rejuvenate the shape. Its neat, evergreen presence provides a calm backdrop for more flamboyant summer flowers.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained loam or sand.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.