T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network


Sand daphne (Pimelea arenaria)

Kingdom: Plantae
(Unranked): Angiosperms
(Unranked): Eudicots
(Unranked): Rosids
Order: Malvales
Family: Thymelaeaceae
Tribe: Daphneae
Genus: Pimelea
Species: P. arenaria
Scientific name: Pimelea arenaria
Common name: Sand daphne, Sand pimelea

Pimelea arenaria is a New Zealand native prostrate shrub forming a thick mass of small oblong leaves which are pale and silky underneath. Small white flowers appear September to March and fruits October to April. It grows naturally on sand dunes hence requires well drained soil. This plant is chronically threatened and is in gradual decline.

Photographed at Te Kainga Marire Gardens at Spencer Place, January.