Botanical name:

Celmisia viscosa

Common name(s):

Sticky mountain daisy

About:

A low-growing, bushy species characterised by short, silvery or grey-green leaves that are narrow, strap-like, and relatively stiff. The specific name, viscosa, indicates its sticky quality, which pertains to the somewhat adhesive nature of the flowering stems. These stems typically reach heights of around 20cm and showcase daisies measuring up to 4cm in width. This species is found in specific regions to the east of the main divide of New Zealand's South Island. It thrives in gritty, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, and prefers full sun or partial shade.

Natural habitat:

Upper montane to alpine. In grassland, herb-fields, fell-fields, around rock outcrops and in stable talus (boulder-field) and occasionally scree slopes.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island. Marlborough south and mostly east of the main divide.

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:

Best grown by seed or division and kept in a moist well drained soil in semi shade.

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