New Zealand holly (Olearia macrodonta): when and how to prune

New Zealand holly (Olearia macrodonta): when to prune it?

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Prune lightly straight after flowering, in July. Cut out frost damage only in April, when you can see which branches shoot again.

What else to prune in those months? April · July

New Zealand holly (Olearia macrodonta): how to prune it?

1. Shorten branches that are too long and the faded flower heads back to a healthy side shoot.
2. Keep the shape loose and natural; spread a big prune over two years.
3. In April, cut brown, frosted branches back to green wood.

How much to cut, and how often?

• There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
• Prune in moderation: never remove more than about a third of the shrub at once.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in April and July can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• New Zealand holly (Olearia macrodonta) flowers in June–July, when it attracts bees.
• If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
• Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Daisy bush (Olearia × haastii)
• Barberry
• Blackthorn
• Bluebeard
• Butterfly bush
• Californian lilac

Plant profile: New Zealand holly (Olearia macrodonta) · Pruning calendar and basic rules