Acaena novae-zelandiae
Acaena novae-zelandiae · Rosaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant acaena novae-zelandiae: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- New Zealand Barberry
- Foliage
- Evergreen, finely divided, bronze-copper tinted
- Flowering
- Spring-summer (small inconspicuous greenish flowers)
- Adult size
- 20–40 cm in height, spreading habit
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Temperate zones, dislikes very harsh winters (−10 °C)
- Origin
- New Zealand
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light, acid-tolerant
Care
Exposure
Place your Acaena in full sun or partial shade to preserve the copper tint of the foliage. A sunny exposure intensifies the colors. Protect it from strong winds and late frosts.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil fresh but well-drained. In winter, reduce watering. Avoid stagnant moisture which promotes root rot.
Soil Preparation
Prepare a light and permeable substrate, mixed with potting soil, sand or pumice. This plant dislikes heavy or chalky soils. Good drainage is essential, especially in humid climates.
Fertilizing
Apply a diluted balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer. Light feeding is sufficient: this plant is not very demanding and prefers moderately poor soil.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regularly remove dried leaves or stems to encourage branching. Light pruning in spring helps densify the habit. Clean the base of debris to prevent disease.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for spider mites and whiteflies in dry conditions. Generally hardy, this plant especially dislikes excess moisture and waterlogged soils which trigger fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Acaena novae-zelandiae is famous for its ornamental spiky red fruits that appear after flowering, hence its common name. In New Zealand, this small ground-covering plant colors the rocky slopes of coastal and subalpine zones, where it spreads easily. Its tiny spines allow it to cling to clothing and animal hair to disperse its seeds.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.