Mountain Daisy, Tikumu
Botanical name: Celmisia semicordata subsp. semicordata
Synonyms: Celmisia coriacea var. semicordata
Common name(s): Mountain Daisy, Tikumu, Large Mountain Daisy
About:
One of New Zealand’s most iconic mountain daisies, forming impressive patches of large silvery rosettes crowned by spectacular white flowers. Tikumu is widespread through much of the South Island and is notable for its broad silver-green leaves, woolly undersides and its long association with Māori weaving traditions.
Natural habitat:
Subalpine and alpine grasslands, shrublands, fellfields, rocky slopes, coastal bluffs, river terraces and disturbed mountain habitats.
Growing environment:
Prefers cool conditions, partial shade to full sun, permanently moist but free-draining acidic soil and good air movement. Does not tolerate drying out and performs best in cooler climates.
Endemic distribution:
Endemic to New Zealand. Widespread through the South Island from North-West Nelson and Nelson Lakes south through Westland and Fiordland, with scattered eastern populations from Hanmer to the Hunters Hills.
Height:
300–450 mm
Width:
Forms extensive patches and colonies, often spreading well beyond 1 m across.
Flowering:
October–February
Fruiting:
November–July
Uses:
• Alpine and mountain gardens
• Native plant collections
• Ecological restoration
• Traditional weaving materials
• Feature foliage plant
• Cool-climate landscaping
Appearance:
Growth habit:
A robust woody-based perennial herb forming large rosettes from a concealed multi-headed rootstock. Plants gradually develop broad irregular patches resembling a silvery sward.
Leaves:
Large lance-shaped to obovate leaves 110–420 mm long. Upper surfaces are covered by a distinctive silver to bronze-green pellicle, while undersides are densely clothed in shining white tomentum. Leaves spread outward with age, creating bold architectural rosettes.
Flowers:
Large white daisy flowers with bright yellow centres, borne singly on stout woolly stems up to 450 mm tall. Flower heads are among the largest in the genus and may contain over 200 white ray florets.
Fruit:
Produces ribbed wind-dispersed achenes topped with fine pappus hairs that assist dispersal across open mountain landscapes.
Ecology:
A highly adaptable species found from sea level to alpine environments. It readily colonises sites disturbed by fire, erosion and grazing, helping stabilise exposed ground and providing resources for native pollinating insects.
Associated habitats:
Tall tussock grasslands, alpine herbfields, subalpine shrublands, fellfields, coastal bluffs, outwash gravels, rocky slopes and mountain wetlands.
How to grow:
Plant in a cool position with permanently moist but free-draining soil. Suitable for alpine gardens, rockeries and cooler regions. Protect from prolonged drought, excessive heat and humid conditions.
Propagation:
Best grown from fresh seed sown immediately after collection or after 1–3 months of cold stratification. Germinates readily when kept cool and consistently moist.
Cultural use:
Tikumu was traditionally important to Māori, particularly in the South Island. The soft white tomentum from the leaf undersides was used in rain capes, cloaks, leggings and protective garments, while the down was also valued as a waterproofing and insulating material.
Garden value:
An outstanding feature plant for cool-climate gardens. Its large silver foliage, impressive white flowers and strong architectural form make it one of New Zealand’s finest ornamental mountain daisies.