Overview
Celmisia spectabilis is a perennial herb in the genus Celmisia, part of the Asteraceae family. Celmisia spectabilis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or rocky soils. Suggested uses include rock gardens and alpine gardens. It is native to New Zealand North.
About
Celmisia spectabilis is a perennial herb in the daisy family adapted to exposed, alpine conditions. It favours well-drained, sandy or rocky substrates and suits full sun or partial shade. Native to the North Island of New Zealand, it is recommended for rock and alpine gardens. Flowering occurs from June to August.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Celmisia spectabilis
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
A member of the genus Celmisia and the Asteraceae, Celmisia spectabilis (cotton daisy or puharetaiko) comes from the exposed, often rocky habitats of New Zealand's North Island. Its ecology suits sites where wind and sun are prominent rather than sheltered, humid corners. Plant into very free-draining soil such as gritty loam, sand or a rocky mix and place in full sun or where it receives some afternoon shade. Keep soil moist but never waterlogged; good drainage is essential in winter to prevent root decline. Positioning on a slight slope, raised bed or in a rock garden pocket helps shed excess water while exposing the plant to open conditions it prefers. Use Celmisia spectabilis in rock and alpine gardens where its form and seasonal blooms can be seen at close range. Expect flowering from June to August, which provides a mid-summer interest in alpine plantings. For best effect, plant where stones or gravel frame the base so the plant sits in a naturally gritty matrix that mirrors its native environment.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Celmisia
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or rocky
- Soil moisture
- moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- exposed, alpine conditions
Plant details
Celmisia spectabilis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, alpine gardens
- Native to
- New Zealand North
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Celmisia spectabilis
- Cultivation
- prefers well-drained soil, tolerates poor soils, avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- remove dead flower heads to encourage new growth
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Celmisia spectabilis?
Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates poor soils, avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Celmisia spectabilis?
Celmisia spectabilis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and alpine conditions positions.
What soil does Celmisia spectabilis need?
Celmisia spectabilis grows best in well-drained and sandy or rocky soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Celmisia spectabilis?
Remove dead flower heads to encourage new growth.
How do I propagate Celmisia spectabilis?
Seed, division.
More in the Celmisia genus
- Celmisia coriaceaNew Zealand cotton plant
- Celmisia coriacea 'Stricta'New Zealand aster
- Celmisia densiflora
- Celmisia hookeri
- Celmisia mackauiAkaroa daisy
- Celmisia monroirock cotton plant, Monro's mountain daisy
- Celmisia rigida
- Celmisia semicordata subsp. semicordata
