Haastia

Haastia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to New Zealand. These plants are characterized by their dense, cushion-like or mat-forming growth habit, and are often found in high-altitude alpine or subalpine environments. They are adapted to harsh conditions, including strong winds, frost, and intense sunlight.

Species of Haastia are typically covered in dense woolly hairs, giving them a whitish or silvery appearance. This woolly covering helps to protect the plants from the elements and reduce water loss. The leaves are small and often scale-like, further reducing surface area exposed to the wind.

The flowers of Haastia are small and inconspicuous, typically yellow or white in color. They are arranged in small heads or clusters.

Haastia species are often slow-growing and long-lived. They play an important role in stabilizing soil and providing habitat for other alpine species.

Some notable characteristics often associated with the genus:

• Endemic to New Zealand
• Alpine/Subalpine Habitat
• Woolly or Hairy Covering
• Cushion or Mat-Forming Growth