Large Mountain Daisy
Celmisia major
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
Robust alpine daisy forming clumps with broader leaves and showy white ray florets around golden centres. Displays best in exposed, stony positions.
Key Identification
Broader leaves and large daisies on sturdy stems; favours lean substrates, bright light and rapid runoff to keep crowns dry in winter.
Quick Facts
Information about Celmisia major is being researched and will be added soon.
| Scientific Name | Celmisia major |
|---|---|
| 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 major 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 major
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 major 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 major
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 Large Mountain Daisy
From Seed
Sow fresh seed of Celmisia major as soon as it is ripe, typically in mid-summer to autumn. Viability is often low, so sow thickly.
Use a free-draining seed mix. Press seeds into the surface and cover with a thin layer of grit. Keep the tray moist and cool. Germination may occur in autumn or be delayed until the following spring.
Cold stratification for 4 weeks can help break dormancy if germination is slow. Prick out seedlings once they have true leaves.
From Division
Division is an easy and effective way to propagate Celmisia major . This species forms large clumps that can be separated into individual crowns.
Lift the clump in spring or autumn. Pull the rosettes apart, ensuring each has a good root system. Trim back the foliage by about a third to reduce water loss.
Replant firmly into prepared soil. Water well. Division also helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may be dying out in the centre.
Cultivation Advice
Celmisia major is a robust species that tolerates a wider range of conditions than some high-alpine species. It prefers a sunny or partially shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil.
It is excellent for rock gardens or the front of a border in cool climates. While hardy, it dislikes humidity and waterlogged soil. Ensure good airflow and drainage.
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 'Large Mountain Daisy', Celmisia major belongs to the iconic 'Tikumu' genus, whose broad, felted leaves were traditionally prized by Māori for weaving into kapes (rain cloaks) and other protective garments. This species, like its larger relatives, likely contributed to the practical and spiritual lives of early Māori living in or traversing alpine regions, offering both utility and a symbol of resilience in harsh environments. Today, it stands as a prominent natural emblem of New Zealand's unique high-country flora.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
Celmisia major is a robust species, tolerating a wider range of conditions than many alpine daisies, making it suitable for rock gardens or front-of-border plantings in cool climates. Ensure well-drained, moist soil and good airflow, avoiding excessive humidity to prevent fungal issues and ensure healthy, vigorous growth.
