Olearia pinifolia

Pressed Olearia pinifolia

The Olearia pinifolia species grows as a thick, spiky shrub or small tree, often to a height of 1-3m. Its foliage contains slender leaves which end in a sharp tip, with the leaves curving down at the edges - known as revolute.[1][5] Leaves are dark green on the upper side, with underside a lighter grey-green,[5] growing to approximate lengths of 3cm. Its flowers have white florets of 18-24, flowerheads occur solitarily,[4] with flowers blooming in late spring - early summer, turning to seed by mid-summer. Set apart and easily distinguished from other Olearia species by its pine-like foliage.

Olearia pinifolia is endemic to Tasmania, occurring sporadically within the 800-1200m altitude,[4] commonly found in similar regions to Olearia ledifolia, but often in less density. It has a tolerance for cold, windy and wet conditions as found in sub-alpine regions. Prefers loamy, fast-draining soil with low phosphorus levels.[6]

This species is known to be resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi;[4] which can cause root rot. Olearia pinifolia may be susceptible to mealybug,[4] which feed on the juices of the plant, and may carry other diseases.

Seeds can be collected from seeding Olearia pinifolia in the late summer to early autumn (January-March), when the achene release the fluffy, white seed-heads.[4] These can be collected and dried, and if sowed within a short time in a surface layer of loamy, low-phosphorus soil, can yield young Olearia pinifolia seedlings. Best sowing months in Tasmania are March-April and October-November,[4] when conditions are mild and frosts rare. Germination occurs in two to five weeks after planting.[4] Can also be propagated from cuttings taken from healthy, young Olearia pinifolia plants.[4]