Botanical name:

Celmisia traversii

Common name(s):

Mountain daisy

About:

A distinctive species, forming clumps 30cm tall. The broad oval leaves are dark green above, and the undersurfaces are covered in rusty brown tomentum. Stout flower stems about 40cm tall bear finely rayed daisies up to 6cm across. Distribution is localised in higher-rainfall alpine areas of Nelson, north-western Canterbury, and southern Fiordland. This species requires deep, rich soil and partial shade, making it challenging to cultivate in garden settings. Suitable growing conditions are vital for its successful establishment and maintenance. Careful consideration should be given to its specific habitat needs for optimal growth.

Natural habitat:

Montane to alpine. Mostly in tussock-land and rocky herb-fields, especially south facing. In inland Marlborough it occurs on shaded bluffs in the headwaters of major rivers.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island, Tasman Mountains as far south as the Wangapeka Saddle; along the main divide from St Arnaud Range to about Doubtful Valley; scattered populations in mountains south of Wairau Valley to Hanmer; Shale Peak, Canterbury; eastern Fiordland from Key Summit to the Hump and Cameron mountains; Mararoa Valley; Takitimu Mountains

Height: 30cm

Flowering:

November - March with a white, yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – May

Uses:

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

How to grow:

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. Plants can be raised from division but are best grown from fresh seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though