rangiora

Brachyglottis repanda | rangiora, bushman’s toilet paper, bushman’s friend

 

A tall-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree, with bold, large leaves with a soft, downy silver underside. In spring, it produces clusters of fragrant, cream-white flowers that attract pollinators. Fast growing and architectural, Rangiora offers strong structure and a lush backdrop in both native and mixed plantings. It performs best in sunny to partially shaded positions, sheltered from strong winds and heavy frost. It prefers moderately fertile, free-draining soils and does not tolerate prolonged wet conditions. Its distinctive foliage, resilience, and rapid establishment make it a striking and dependable choice.

coastal forest

lowland forest

montane forest

forest margins

free draining

well drained

partial shade

full sun

height | 3m

width | 1.5m

flowering | (July-) August-October (-November)

fruiting | October-) November-December (-January)

Rangiora’s giant, papery leaves with their soft, furry undersides earned it the nickname bushman’s toilet paper — a very literal example of plants being put to practical use in early bush life.