Id-Code: AA 066
Family: Apiaceae, Umbelliferae
Origin: New Zealand: South Islands
Special Features: Masses of golden leaves with sharp edges. Cream flowers on large stems are surrounded by sharp bracts
History: Common plant in New Zealand high country. An ability to survive fire has led to colonisation of extensive areas
Colour: Cream
Natural Flowering Period: June - August
Winter Hardiness Zones: Z5-9
Growth Habit: Forms a clump to 1 m in diameter
Foliage: Golden-green toothed, sword-shaped leaves
Height with Flower: 100 cm (40'')
Spacing between Plants: 60 cm (24')
Soil Requirement: Any well drained soil, pH 5.8 - 6.8
Location: Full sun or partial shade in warmer climates
Use: Looks good as specimen plant or with medium-sized grasses. Spectacular in larger containers, or in the border. Plant together with Echium russicum, Stokesia 'Omega Skyrocket' and Chrysanthemum (Tanacetum) macrophyllum
Specialities: An distinctive and unusual perennial with great architectural merit

Cultural Tips:
Grams per 1000 seeds: 3,448
Seeds per Gram: 290
Seeding Recommendation: 10 g / 1000 plants
Sowing Rate: 2-3 seeds per cell
Plug tray recommended size(s): 72s or open flats
Germination: The sowing must be kept warm (about +18 to 22°C) (about 64 to 72°F) and moist for the first 2-4 weeks. After this period the sowing must be kept at a cold temperature (between -4 and +4°C) (between 25 and 39°F) for another 4-6 weeks. It is not so important if the temperature is higher of lower during the cooling period, but the cooling period has to be prolonged because the synthesis of the germination inducer, homonlike acid, slows down or comes to a standstill.
It is beneficial to cover the sowing with snow during the cooling period. After this cooling period the sowing may not be immediately exposed to high temperatures. The most effective temperatures are between +5 to 12°C (41 to 54°F), even if germination has started. The best location for this sowing, even in March, April and May, is open field, the cold frame or a cold greenhouse.
The directions above do not always show the best results. After the cooling-period this species need a longer time until germination starts. As some seeds do not germinate until the next year, it is important not to throw away the seed boxes too early.