Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake)

How to grow Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake) in NZ

Olearia avicenniifolia grows best in NZ when planted in full sun or partial shade with free draining soil. It thrives in cooler regions and is naturally suited to exposed and upland environments. Plant in autumn or spring to give roots the best chance of establishing before summer or winter extremes. Adding mulch around the base helps conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds. With the right care, Mountain Ake Ake establishes quickly and becomes a reliable shelter and feature tree.

Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake) care tips

Caring for Olearia avicenniifolia is easy as it is a naturally tough and resilient species. Water young trees during extended dry periods to assist with establishment, but once mature, it is highly tolerant of dryness and exposure. Fertiliser is not usually required, though an annual application of general purpose fertiliser in spring can encourage lush growth. Light trimming can be done to maintain form, but heavy pruning is rarely necessary. Its resilience makes it a low maintenance tree.

Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake) size, spacing, and growth rate

Olearia avicenniifolia is a fast growing tree that can reach 8–10 m tall and 4–5 m wide at maturity. It forms a dense, upright habit and is well suited for use as a shelter tree, screen, or windbreak. Space trees about 4–5 m apart when planting in rows to allow for adequate development. Growth is vigorous in the right conditions, and it will quickly establish to provide both shelter and visual impact in the landscape.

Landscaping uses for Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake)

Olearia avicenniifolia is widely used in NZ landscaping for its toughness, fast growth, and evergreen foliage. It is commonly planted as a shelterbelt, screen, or windbreak on lifestyle blocks and farms. Its daisy like summer flowers add seasonal appeal, while its dense form provides excellent shade and cover for wildlife. Mountain Ake Ake also works well in native revegetation projects and is suitable for exposed or difficult sites where other species may struggle.

Why buy Olearia avicenniifolia (Mountain Ake Ake) from The Plant Company?

Buying Olearia avicenniifolia from The Plant Company ensures you receive strong, healthy plants grown to perform in NZ conditions. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, we pride ourselves on producing premium quality natives that are carefully packed and shipped nationwide. Our expert team is always available to provide guidance and support, ensuring your planting success. Choosing The Plant Company means investing in reliability, quality, and confidence for your landscape projects.