There is something special about seeing our high-country hardy stock take root in iconic local landscapes. The team at Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa recently refreshed the grounds around the lodge, selecting a refined mix of our Griselinia littoralis, Hebe odora and Pittosporum ‘Globe’.
The result? A striking landscape balance that brings year-round structure, soft evergreen texture and a clean, understated aesthetic that complements the surrounding vineyard and mountain backdrop.
Built for the Central Otago Climate
Gibbston Valley is renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir, but the very climate that makes the grapes thrive can be tough on garden landscapes. Between biting winter frosts, intense sun and alpine wind, plants need real resilience to perform.
This specific planting selection works so well because every species is naturally equipped for the local environment:
Griselinia littoralis (Broadleaf): Offers vibrant, glossy green foliage that provides strong structural backdrop and excellent wind resistance.
Hebe odora: Delivers a compact, neat habit with fine foliage that handles severe frosts and dry soils with ease.
Pittosporum ‘Globe’: Adds tight, rounded form and soft texture without requiring constant pruning to keep its neat shape.
Together, they create a low-maintenance, high-impact combination that looks polished in every season while staying entirely true to the local Central Otago flora.
Supporting Local, Growing Local
When plants are grown and hardened right here in the region, they adapt almost seamlessly to site conditions, suffering minimal transplant shock and establishing much faster.
A big thank you to the Gibbston Valley team for choosing locally grown stock and supporting regional growers. If you are stopping by the lodge or winery, keep an eye out for the new additions. They are settling in beautifully and setting a high benchmark for local landscape design.
