New zealand bur (Acaena anserinifolia)

Also known as: Pirri-pirri bur, Bronze piri-piri-bur, Bidgee-widgee

The New Zealand bur is a low-growing perennial herb noted for its delicate, feather-like leaves, which resemble the plumage of a waterfowl. This ground-covering plant flourishes in open, rocky environments and adapts well to nutrient-poor soils. It typically has reddish stems. During its blooming period, the New Zealand bur produces small, inconspicuous flowers, which are followed by distinctive, spiky seed heads that latch onto animals for seed dispersal.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of New zealand bur

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10-20 cm

Spread

30-50 cm

Leaf Color

Silvery-grey

Flower Size

0.5-1 cm

Flower Color

White or light green

Images of New zealand bur

Quickly Identify New zealand bur

Acaena anserinifolia can be identified by its silvery-grey, pinnate leaves which resemble goosefoot. The leaves are hairy and have a soft texture. The plant produces small, burr-like fruit that can stick to clothing or fur.

Scientific Classification of New zealand bur

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Acaena

Species

New zealand bur

Planting and Growing of New zealand bur

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water New zealand bur?

For Acaena anserinifolia, it's essential to strike the right balance with watering. This plant requires around 250ml of water per session, ensuring that the soil is damp but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply until you notice moisture emerging from the pot’s drainage holes. This indicates that the roots have received sufficient hydration without causing water to pool at the bottom.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered New zealand bur? ›

What should I do if my New zealand bur is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered New zealand bur? ›

How to save an overwatered New zealand bur? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for New zealand bur?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours of sunlight

Preferred in full sun to partial sun areas, Acaena anserinifolia benefits greatly from these conditions as they enhance its growth and foliage vibrancy, essential for ornamental display.

How much sun does Acaena anserinifolia need? ›

What happens if it doesn't get enough light? ›

What are the best practices to provide ideal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for New zealand bur?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For optimal growth of Acaena anserinifolia, the ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides the conditions necessary for robust growth and flowering, allowing the plant to thrive with minimal stress from environmental extremes. A consistent environment within this range helps ensure nutrient uptake and photosynthesis proceed efficiently.

What Soil is Best for New zealand bur?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Acaena anserinifolia thrives in well-drained soil. This helps to prevent root rot and allows for proper moisture balance, essential for healthy growth. This plant prefers nutrient-rich soil, which provides essential minerals and nutrients, ensuring robust growth and vibrant foliage. Though well-drained, the soil should retain some moisture to support Acaena anserinifolia during dry spells, contributing to consistent growth.

How to Fertilize New zealand bur?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Acaena anserinifolia requires a moderate approach to fertilization. For liquid fertilizer, apply it at the recommended concentration to cover all plants thoroughly without causing runoff. Solid fertilizers should be applied lightly, ensuring not to exceed 50 grams per square meter, as over-fertilization can harm root systems.

How to Prune New zealand bur?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by removing any dead or diseased branches. These should be cut back to a healthy part of the plant. This not only improves appearance but also reduces the risk of disease spread. A clean cut encourages new growth in that area. Next, focus on shaping the plant by trimming any overgrown or unruly stems. Aim to create a balanced shape that is pleasing to the eye. Make sure you step back occasionally to assess the shape and growth direction, ensuring a symmetrical appearance. To promote thicker foliage, trim back stems just above a leaf node. This will encourage branching and fuller growth. Regular trimming will help keep the plant looking lush and dense, which is particularly desirable in ornamental settings. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate New zealand bur plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Gather seeds from a mature Acaena anserinifolia plant. Ensure the seeds are completely dry before storing or planting. This step is crucial as seeds collected too early may not germinate.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and take a cutting of about 10 cm. Remove lower leaves, leaving only a few on top. This reduces water loss and encourages quicker rooting.

Divide mature plants by carefully separating the roots. Each division should have a healthy portion of roots and shoots. Plant these divisions immediately in fresh soil to ensure they establish well.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot New zealand bur plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot when the roots start circling inside the pot or peeking out from drainage holes. Ideally, this is done in early Spring or during Summer when the plant enters its growing phase. Fresh soil after repotting invigorates the plant, promoting healthy growth.

Select a container one or two sizes larger with good drainage. Ceramic pots are ideal for their weight and preventing tipping. A slightly larger size provides room for root development but isn't excessive to avoid water retention, which could lead to root rot.

Opt for a well-draining mix like loamy soil, combined with some perlite or sand to enhance aeration and drainage. This type of soil prevents waterlogging while ensuring enough moisture is available for root uptake, promoting robust plant health.