Olearia axillaris – Coastal Dune Daisy Seed x 40

This plant is native to the coastal dunes of the southern states of Australia and additionally to some inland areas of West Australia. The plant is found in the vegetation claiming sand dunes and also grows on limestone and rocky slopes along the coastline. Needless to say, it is salt, wind and poor soil tolerant.

An erect, shrubby herb growing to 2 metres high, much branched and densely covered with small leaves, 12mm long and 1-3mm wide, with the margins rolled backwards and are fragrant when crushed. The leaves and stems are covered in fine white hairs which give the foliage a silvery green appearance.

The flowers are yellow florets supported by white bracts are not very noteworthy. However, this plant is ideal for cultivation in seaside gardens as a barrier, windbreak or low hedge.

This plant is one of the first reported edible native plants. Two early visitors to the West Australia coast used its leaves to supplement their poor diet.