Woolly Mountain Daisy
Celmisia verbascifolia
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
Striking alpine daisy with broad, sometimes woolly leaves and bold white flower heads. Forms low clumps that excel on raised, stony sites with full exposure.
Key Identification
Large, felted leaves and showy daisies; thrives in lean, fast‑draining substrates with maximum light and protection from winter stagnation.
Quick Facts
Information about Celmisia verbascifolia is being researched and will be added soon.
| Scientific Name | Celmisia verbascifolia |
|---|---|
| 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 verbascifolia 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 verbascifolia
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 verbascifolia 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 verbascifolia
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 Woolly Mountain Daisy
From Seed
Propagation of Celmisia verbascifolia from fresh seed is the most common method. Collect seeds from the dried flower heads in late summer to autumn. Celmisia seeds often benefit from a period of cold stratification (mimicking winter conditions) to break dormancy, so mixing seeds with moist sand and refrigerating for 1-3 months before sowing can improve germination rates. Sow seeds onto a very free-draining, gritty seed-raising mix, lightly pressing them into the surface but not covering, as they often require light to germinate. Maintain cool, airy conditions and consistent moisture (avoiding waterlogging) in a protected environment. Germination can be erratic and slow, often taking several weeks to many months. Once seedlings are robust enough, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a cool, bright, and well-ventilated location until strong enough for planting out.
From Division
Division of established rosettes is possible for Celmisia verbascifolia, especially for larger, multi-crowned plants. This is best done in early spring as new growth commences, or in autumn. Carefully lift the plant and gently separate individual rosettes or clumps, ensuring each division has a healthy root system. Replant divisions immediately into well-drained, gritty soil. Water thoroughly after replanting and keep consistently moist until established. Care must be taken to minimize root disturbance, as Celmisia can be sensitive to transplanting. Division is an effective way to maintain genetic purity and rejuvenate older plants.
General Cultivation
The Woolly Mountain Daisy is an alpine specialist that thrives in cool, free-draining sites with full sun and good airflow. It requires lean, gritty soils (e.g., a mix with pumice, coarse sand, or gravel) and sharply drained conditions around the crown, particularly in winter to avoid stagnation. Avoid rich composts or heavy, waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot. Position plants where they receive maximum light and strong airflow, but protect from excessive heat and humidity in lowland gardens. Water sparingly once established, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, but ensure consistent moisture during the growing season. It is highly tolerant of severe freezes but benefits from winter dryness around the crown. Plant in the cool, moist months into weed-free ground. Minimal pruning is needed; remove dead or damaged foliage as required.
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 'Woolly Mountain Daisy' with prominent felted leaves, Celmisia verbascifolia is a prime example of the species known as 'Tikumu' to Māori. The broad, tomentose leaves of such Celmisia species were traditionally highly valued for their insulating and water-resistant qualities, used in weaving kapes (rain cloaks) and as protective leg coverings (pūhā) when traversing rough country. This species, therefore, holds significant historical and cultural value, embodying both practical utility and the symbolic resilience of New Zealand's alpine flora.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
For best results with Celmisia verbascifolia, prioritize excellent drainage and cool, airy conditions. Mimic its alpine habitat by planting in a gritty, free-draining mix in full sun, and protect its woolly crown from excessive winter wet. Minimal intervention is key to fostering its natural resilience.
