Celmisia coriacea (New Zealand cotton plant) — perennial herb

Overview

Celmisia coriacea is a perennial herb in the genus Celmisia, part of the Asteraceae family. Celmisia coriacea grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and rocky or sandy soils soils. Suggested uses include rock gardens and alpine gardens. It is native to New Zealand South.

About

Celmisia coriacea is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae from the south of New Zealand, adapted to exposed alpine sites. It favours well-drained, rocky or sandy soils and suits full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil moist but well-drained. Flowering occurs from June to August and it is commonly used in rock and alpine gardens.

About the genus

Celmisia is a genus of perennial herbs or subshrubs, in the family Asteraceae. Most of the species are endemic to New Zealand; several others are endemic to Australia.Species and nothospecies

Wikipedia contributors, "Celmisia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Celmisia

In the garden

Celmisia coriacea is a perennial herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae) native to the south of New Zealand, where it occupies exposed, alpine terrain. In its natural setting it grows in gritty, free-draining ground rather than rich loam, so it does best where drainage is assured and air movement is good. Plant in a sunny or partly shaded spot on a free-draining mix of gritty or sandy soil; adding coarse grit or sharp sand to the planting hole helps reproduce its native substrate. The plant prefers moist yet well-drained conditions, so avoid heavy, water-retentive soils and sites where water pools. Its tolerance for exposed alpine conditions means it will take sun and wind on an open scree or rock setting. In the UK, Celmisia coriacea is a specialist for rock gardens and alpine beds, where its habit and seasonal flowers can be displayed in crevices or raised rockwork. Flowering runs from June to August, providing a clear summer window for interest in compact alpine pockets rather than mixed borders.