Pimelea Villosa (Sand Daphne)

 The Endangered Sand Daphne 

What is the Sand Daphne you may ask? Well, it is a small “hairy” shrub that reaches about 30 cm in height with small leaves and a cluster of furry white flowers. They are very unique plants considering some of them have both viable male stamens and female styles within the same flower (aka hermaphrodites). These plants are endemic to New Zealand, meaning they can only be found there!

     

What is their role and why should we care?

The plant’s flowers mature into tiny white fruits which are eaten by local birds and lizards. The Sand Daphnes are a vital source of nutrients for the wildlife and without them, it would put surrounding endangered plants and wildlife in more danger. In turn, the animals deposit the seeds in other areas of the environment, helping the plant repopulate. 

Cause of decline

The damp areas where the Sand Daphne live, are invaded by hordes of weeds after being planted with marram grass and pine plantations. In addition to the weeds, climate change plays a big role in their decline. The sand dunes which they thrive have started to erode due to the rise of sea levels and increase in storms.

Current conservation efforts

One of the main conservation actions being taken is driven by the DOC (department of conservation) in which they remove the infesting weeds. Removing the weeds has proven to be very beneficial for the Sand Daphne’s health. Thankfully these plants can also be grown in cultivation, but they are not long lived and require constant replanting. They are currently being grown at Otari Native Botanic Garden in Wellington.

Sand Daphne Fruit

Why is geography important when saving this species? 

Studying New Zealand’s geography is very important when it comes to the conservation of this plant species. The Sand Daphne can only grow in specific conditions so it is essential to figure out the best place to cultivate and hopefully replant them one day. 

Want to help? Here are a few ways you can get involved!

1). Donate to organizations helping with the removal of weeds in the Sand Daphne’s land.

2). Volunteer if you are ever in the area! There are plenty of ways to get your hands dirty and help! 

3). Educate and share with friends, family, and others who may be interested!

4). Do what you can as an individual to prevent climate change!

5). Suggest ways friends, family, and others can do their part in climate change prevention!

References:

“Dune Swale Daphne.” Endangered Species Foundation. 

Bergin, David, and Michael Bergin. “Restoration of Sand Daphne on Costal Dunes.” Dune Restoration Trust of New Zealand, 2014.