Ozothamnus leptophyllus
Ozothamnus leptophyllus
Common Names: Tauhinu, Cottonwood, Cassinia leptophylla
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
Overview:
Ozothamnus leptophyllus, commonly known as Tauhinu or Cottonwood, is a fast-growing New Zealand native shrub valued for its fine silver-grey foliage and soft, airy texture. Naturally found in coastal and lowland environments, it thrives in exposed, dry conditions where many other plants struggle. Its light, feathery appearance makes it an excellent choice for shelter, revegetation, and low-maintenance landscaping.
Key Features:
Foliage: Fine, narrow leaves with a distinctive silver-grey colour, giving a soft, misty appearance
Flowers / Fruit: Small creamy-white flowers in clusters during summer, lightly fragrant and attractive to insects
Form & Habit: Upright, bushy shrub with a light, open structure
Growth Rate: Fast
Cultural & Ecological Value: Excellent pioneer species; provides shelter and habitat in restoration plantings
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–3 m |
| Spread | 1.5–2 m |
| Form | Upright, airy shrub |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low; highly drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Prefers well-drained, sandy or poor soils |
| pH Range | Tolerates a wide range |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light to moderate frost |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
-
Ideal for coastal and exposed sites
-
Excellent for shelter belts and screening
-
Valuable in native restoration and revegetation projects
-
Great for adding contrast and texture in mixed plantings
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Watering: Minimal once established; avoid overwatering
Feeding: Generally not required; thrives in low-fertility soils
Pests & Diseases: Very hardy and typically pest-free
Additional Tips:
-
Best suited to dry, free-draining locations
-
Avoid heavy, wet soils which can lead to root issues
-
Useful as a quick-growing nurse plant for slower natives
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Tauhinu is often one of the first plants to colonise disturbed ground, helping stabilise soils and create conditions for other native species to establish.
Why Choose Ozothamnus leptophyllus?
If you need a tough, fast-growing native for harsh conditions, Tauhinu is an excellent choice—offering resilience, structure, and soft silver foliage that complements a wide range of planting styles.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Original: $4.76
-65%$4.76
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Description
Ozothamnus leptophyllus
Common Names: Tauhinu, Cottonwood, Cassinia leptophylla
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
Overview:
Ozothamnus leptophyllus, commonly known as Tauhinu or Cottonwood, is a fast-growing New Zealand native shrub valued for its fine silver-grey foliage and soft, airy texture. Naturally found in coastal and lowland environments, it thrives in exposed, dry conditions where many other plants struggle. Its light, feathery appearance makes it an excellent choice for shelter, revegetation, and low-maintenance landscaping.
Key Features:
Foliage: Fine, narrow leaves with a distinctive silver-grey colour, giving a soft, misty appearance
Flowers / Fruit: Small creamy-white flowers in clusters during summer, lightly fragrant and attractive to insects
Form & Habit: Upright, bushy shrub with a light, open structure
Growth Rate: Fast
Cultural & Ecological Value: Excellent pioneer species; provides shelter and habitat in restoration plantings
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–3 m |
| Spread | 1.5–2 m |
| Form | Upright, airy shrub |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low; highly drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Prefers well-drained, sandy or poor soils |
| pH Range | Tolerates a wide range |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light to moderate frost |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
-
Ideal for coastal and exposed sites
-
Excellent for shelter belts and screening
-
Valuable in native restoration and revegetation projects
-
Great for adding contrast and texture in mixed plantings
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Watering: Minimal once established; avoid overwatering
Feeding: Generally not required; thrives in low-fertility soils
Pests & Diseases: Very hardy and typically pest-free
Additional Tips:
-
Best suited to dry, free-draining locations
-
Avoid heavy, wet soils which can lead to root issues
-
Useful as a quick-growing nurse plant for slower natives
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Tauhinu is often one of the first plants to colonise disturbed ground, helping stabilise soils and create conditions for other native species to establish.
Why Choose Ozothamnus leptophyllus?
If you need a tough, fast-growing native for harsh conditions, Tauhinu is an excellent choice—offering resilience, structure, and soft silver foliage that complements a wide range of planting styles.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
