Te Mata Pimelea described as a new species
In October 2011, the Te Mata Pimelea was officially described as a new species, entitled Pimelea mimosa. It is critically endangered within the wild, where only a small number of wild plants endure on inaccessible cliffs. This taxonomic change makes little difference to the necessity of protecting this species, which was already the subject of a concerted conservation effort by Friends of Te Mata Peak.
In addition to the Te Mata Pimelea, there is a form of tussock, called Chionochloa flavicans f. temata, that is restricted to the Peak (as well as a form of mountain daisy, Celmisia aff. gracilenta - which is recognised by some botanists as distinct).
We have an active interest in Pimelea mimosa, as we have planted a large number of them in the garden that we installed on the foothills of Te Mata Peak, as well as in gardens within Auckland. It is a beautiful, and surprisingly versatile, garden plant, that should be embraced by Hawkes Bay gardeners. In the 'Plants' section of the website, there is a profile dedicated to Pimelea mimosa, for those that would like to learn more about this charming shrub.