Botanical name:

Celmisia spectabilis

Common name(s):

Common mountain daisy, cotton plant

About:

C. spectabilis is a dynamic species characterised by its ability to thrive in various environments, particularly in disturbed areas. This plant is commonly found in regions ranging from Hikurangi in the North Island to Rakaia on the South Island's eastern coast, adapting well from montane to alpine habitats. It features a robust tufted structure with leaves that are sword-like, reaching lengths of 20-30cm and displaying a colour spectrum from light to yellowish green on the topside, with a dense felt-like texture underneath. The flowers, which can measure 3-5cm in diameter, grow on stems that rise to about 25cm, making them suitable for rock gardens or as part of the front border in landscaping. C. spectabilis prefers moist, well-drained soil and can be effectively cultivated in sunny or semi-shaded locations.

Natural habitat:

Alpine and subalpine grassland, herb-fields & rocky sites.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. In the North Island from the Raukumara Range South though the central volcanoes, Kaimanawa Mountains; Kaweka Range; north-west Ruahine Range and Tararua Range. In the South Island present in north-west Nelson and from northern Marlborough south to Rakaia River and Mathias River in Canterbury.

Height: 25cm

Flowering:

October - February with a white, yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

November – May

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Flowers

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. Celmisia spectabilis is one of the few Celmisia that is easily grown in most climates though it dislikes high humidity. Best grown in a moist, free draining soil, within some afternoon shade.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4-6 weeks cold stratification is recommended though