Mackau's Daisy
Celmisia mackaui
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
Compact, clumping Celmisia with narrow leaves and neat white daisies held above the foliage. Suited to troughs and raised, stony beds where drainage is excellent.
Key Identification
Small stature, tidy rosettes and floral display in high‑light, lean conditions; protect crowns from winter wet by planting high among gravel.
Quick Facts
Information about Celmisia mackaui is being researched and will be added soon.
| Scientific Name | Celmisia mackaui |
|---|---|
| Height | Variable by habitat |
| Spread | Forms clumps or patches |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Light | Sun to light shade |
| 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 mackaui 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 mackaui
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 mackaui 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 mackaui
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 Mackau's Daisy
From Seed
Celmisia mackaui is most commonly propagated from fresh seed. The seeds are wind-dispersed in nature, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil and covered only very lightly with grit to prevent them blowing away.
Fresh seed can germinate without pre-treatment, but a period of cold stratification (4 weeks in a refrigerator) may improve results. Sow in autumn for natural stratification or spring if stratifying artificially.
Seedlings should be pricked out carefully into deep pots to accommodate their roots. They may take 2-3 years to reach a size suitable for planting out.
From Division
While less common than seed, established clumps can be divided. This species forms a loose mat of rosettes from a woody base.
Attempt division in early spring. Carefully lift the plant and separate rosettes that have formed their own roots. Use a sterile knife if necessary. Replant immediately and keep watered until established.
Note that Celmisia species can be sensitive to disturbance, so only divide vigorous, healthy plants.
Garden Requirements
Mackau's Daisy is an attractive, slightly larger alpine daisy that requires cool, airy conditions. It prefers a deep, moist but free-draining soil.
It thrives in high light levels but should be protected from scorching heat in warmer districts. Sharp drainage is essential to prevent root rot, particularly in winter. A raised bed or large rockery is ideal.
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
Named after Charles Mackau, a French admiral, Celmisia mackaui shares in the general cultural significance of the 'Tikumu' genus for Māori, representing the beauty and resilience of New Zealand's alpine flora. While not historically a source for traditional uses like weaving due to its compact size, it contributes to the ecological integrity and aesthetic value of high-country ecosystems. Its conservation status as 'Naturally Uncommon' further highlights its unique value within New Zealand's endemic biodiversity.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
For optimal growth of Celmisia mackaui, plant it in a well-drained, gritty mix, ensuring its crown is kept dry, especially in winter. This compact alpine daisy thrives with full sun and good air circulation, preferring minimal intervention to mimic its natural high-country habitat.
