Narrow-leaved Daisy
Celmisia angustifolia
Classic alpine daisy for cool, free‑draining sites; full sun with airflow, lean gritty soils, and winter dryness around the crown. See our alpine plants guide.
Description
Evergreen alpine daisy forming clumps of narrow, linear leaves with silvery undersides. Stout stems carry white ray florets with golden centres in late spring to summer.
Key Identification
Narrow leaves with a pale or silvery reverse and showy white daisies on sturdy stems; thrives in lean, stony, fast‑draining soils with high light and moving air.
Quick Facts
Information about Celmisia angustifolia is being researched and will be added soon.
| Scientific Name | Celmisia angustifolia |
|---|---|
| Height | Variable by habitat |
| Spread | Forms clumps or patches |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | High - tolerant of severe freezes |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Suitability
Information about Celmisia angustifolia is being researched and will be added soon.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
occurs in natural habitats characteristic of Aotearoa, forming part of distinctive plant communities where site stress and local disturbance shape vegetation patterns. It favours exposed slopes, screes or fellfields with thin, rapidly drained mineral soils, enduring intense radiation, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. On the coast it occupies sunny, wind‑prone sites with sandy or rocky substrates, where salt‑laden air and periodic drought limit competition. These preferences explain its patchy distribution and sensitivity to changes in hydrology, competition and disturbance regimes. Celmisia angustifolia
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
are influenced by land use, browsing and weeds. Protecting intact habitat mosaics, reducing browser pressure, and managing invasive plants sustain recruitment. Where local stands are small or isolated, eco‑sourced augmentation and careful site stewardship help secure long‑term viability. Celmisia angustifolia Populations of
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Provide free‑draining soils and high light appropriate to the species’ natural range. Use gritty, stony mixes and an open aspect with moving air; keep crowns high and dry, especially in winter. Choose warm, sunny sites with shelter from the fiercest onshore winds; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant in the cool, moist months into weed‑free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Grouping two to three plants replicates natural patterns and improves establishment under local conditions.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
contributes structure and seasonal resources where it grows, providing cover and habitat for invertebrates and, when flowering or fruiting, nectar, pollen or seed for fauna. By tolerating the stresses of its environment, it helps stabilise sites and enrich small‑scale habitat diversity. Celmisia angustifolia
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Ideal for rock and gravel gardens that emulate alpine processes, or for specialised collections. Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Little pruning is required; remove dead or crossing material after flowering and avoid hard renovation cuts. Light tip‑pruning maintains compact form without compromising the plant’s natural character.
How to Grow Narrow-leaved Daisy
From Seed
Propagation of Celmisia angustifolia from seed requires patience. Germination can be slow, taking several weeks or even months. Collect seed when the heads become fluffy and loose, typically in late summer.
Sow fresh seed on the surface of a free-draining, gritty seed mix. Press the seeds lightly into the surface but do not cover them heavily, as light aids germination. A thin dusting of grit is sufficient. Keep the trays moist and place them in a cool, bright location out of direct scorching sun.
Cold stratification often improves germination rates. If fresh sowing yields poor results, placing the moist seed tray in a refrigerator for 4 weeks before returning it to ambient temperatures can help break dormancy. Once seedlings appear, grow them on slowly, pricking them out when they are large enough to handle without damaging the delicate roots.
From Division
Division is the quickest way to propagate Celmisia angustifolia and ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent. This is best performed in early spring or autumn when the plant is not in flower.
Dig up the mature plant, taking care to preserve the root ball. Gently pull the clump apart into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and foliage. Discard any old, woody, or rotting center parts. Trim any damaged roots with sterile shears.
Plant the divisions immediately into a gritty, well-drained soil mix. Water well to settle the soil. Providing some shade and protection from wind for the first few weeks will help the divisions establish successfully.
Cultivation Notes
Celmisia angustifolia (Strap-leaved Daisy) is a hardy alpine native that demands sharp drainage. It is intolerant of waterlogged heavy soils, which will quickly lead to root rot. In the garden, it performs best in a rockery, raised bed, or trough where drainage is guaranteed.
It prefers a sunny, open situation with good air movement. While it is frost-hardy, it dislikes the combination of winter wet and humidity found in many lowland gardens. A gravel mulch around the neck of the plant helps to drain water away from the foliage and crown, reducing the risk of rot. Regular removal of dead leaves keeps the plant healthy and attractive.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. Crown and root rots arise if winter wet persists; keep crowns elevated and water moving. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
As a member of the diverse Celmisia genus, known as 'Tikumu' by Māori, this species contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of New Zealand's alpine flora. While its narrow leaves might not have been ideal for weaving kapes (rain cloaks) like some broader-leaved relatives, it still embodies the resilience and unique beauty of these mountain daisies. Its presence in high-altitude environments serves as a natural indicator of pristine alpine conditions and a reminder of the powerful adaptations of native plants, representing the enduring spirit of Aotearoa's high country.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
Successfully cultivating Celmisia angustifolia demands cool, moist conditions reminiscent of its natural alpine habitat, coupled with sharp drainage. It performs best in scree gardens or raised beds with gritty, humus-rich soil, and benefits from good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid environments.
