Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

Raoulia hookeri (Alpine Sheep)

Raoulia hookeri, commonly known as Alpine Sheep or Vegetable Sheep, is a hardy New Zealand alpine plant that forms dense, silvery-grey mats resembling woolly cushions. Native to high country regions, it thrives in full sun and well-drained, gritty soils. Growing just 2–5 cm tall and spreading wide, it’s ideal for rock and alpine gardens. Its compact, ground-hugging form makes it a unique and resilient addition to any low-maintenance, high-impact landscape design.

Raoulia hookerii (Alpine Sheep) plant growing amidst rocks.
Raoulia hookerii (Alpine Sheep) plant with grey foliage in an alpine garden.
Raoulia hookerii (Alpine Sheep) plant grey foliage close up.

Raoulia hookeri is currently unavailable.

Why? Our plants are subject to seasonality and high-demand. Please contact us if you would like to know when it becomes available again.

Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Perennials
Height:5 cm
Spread:50 cm
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Rock
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku13952

How to grow Raoulia hookeri in NZ

Raoulia hookeri thrives in full sun and sharply drained, gritty or sandy soils, making it ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries. Choose an exposed, open site to replicate its natural high-country habitat, and avoid overly rich or damp soils. Plant in autumn, winter, or spring for best establishment. Water sparingly, as this plant prefers dry conditions. Minimal maintenance is required, but good air circulation and drainage are essential for long-term success.

Planting and Care Tips

Raoulia hookeri requires a sunny position with excellent drainage—gravelly or sandy soil is ideal. Avoid heavy or water-retentive soils, especially during winter, as root rot can occur. When planting, space plants 20–30 cm apart to allow for natural spread. Water lightly during establishment, then only during extended dry periods. No pruning is necessary, but removing debris helps maintain its tidy form.

Why buy Raoulia hookeri from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies top-quality Raoulia hookeri plants, carefully cultivated for strength, health, and alpine performance. Perfect for rockeries and dry gardens, our plants are carefully propagated to ensure excellent establishment and longevity. With expert advice, fast nationwide delivery, and trusted customer service, The Plant Company makes it easy to add this unique, low-maintenance native to your landscape.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Raoulia hookeri? We are here to help.

Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga) plants in flower with lush green foliage in a border garden.
Most Popular

Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily)

Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as Rengarenga Lily or New Zealand Rock Lily, is a clump-forming, evergreen perennial native to New Zealand. It...

From$13.14
dianthus-angel-of-purity--1
Most Popular

Dianthus Angel of Purity

Dianthus Angel Of Purity is a variety of Carnation that features attractive, white flowers. The plants are bushy and grow to about 30 cm tall and 40...

From$17.94
Orange flowers on a lush Clivia miniata grandiflora plant.
Most Popular

Clivia miniata grandiflora (Natal Lily)

Clivia miniata grandiflora is a stunning perennial known for its large, vibrant orange trumpet-shaped flowers and dark green strap-like leaves. Ideal...

From$26.34
pelargonium-peltatum-tomcat-
Most Popular

Pelargonium Tomcat

Pelargonium Tomcat is a variety of Geranium grown for its clusters of dark red flowers and trailing growth habit. The leaves on this evergreen are...

From$19.14
From trusted favourites like Rhododendron Scented Sun and Coprosma Hawera (Sand Coprosma) to fresh faces like Aeonium arboreum, Hebe stricta (Koromiko), and Loropetalum Burgundy (Fringe Flower) — we’ve got you covered.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

411 Google reviews