Celmisia Markii

Description

Celmisia Markii, also known as Mark’s Mountain Daisy or Mark’s Celmisia, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to New Zealand’s South Island, particularly in the Kaikoura Mountains and Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku. Celmisia Markii is a perennial plant that grows up to 30 cm in height and has a clump-forming habit. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Celmisia Markii has narrow, spoon-shaped leaves that are silvery-green in color and have a woolly texture. The leaves are about 5-15 cm in length and 1-2 cm in width. The plant produces a single stem that bears a terminal cluster of flowers. The flowers are daisy-like, with white petals and yellow centers. Each flower measures about 2-3 cm in diameter. The plant blooms in the summer, from December to February in New Zealand.

Care Guide

Celmisia Markii is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Celmisia Markii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Celmisia Markii is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Celmisia Markii is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding. If you do notice pests or diseases, treat them promptly with insecticides or fungicides.

Habitat

Celmisia Markii is native to New Zealand’s South Island, where it grows in alpine and subalpine habitats. It prefers well-draining soils and full sunlight. The plant is adapted to cold temperatures and can tolerate frost and snow.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Celmisia Markii be grown in containers?
• A: Yes, Celmisia Markii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
• Q: Does Celmisia Markii attract pollinators?
• A: Yes, Celmisia Markii is attractive to bees and butterflies.
• Q: How often should I fertilize Celmisia Markii?
• A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: Can Celmisia Markii be propagated from cuttings?
• A: Yes, Celmisia Markii can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring.

Related Plants

• Celmisia Haastii
• Celmisia Helmsii
• Celmisia Semicordata
• Celmisia Spectabilis

References

• Brockie, R. (2005). Celmisia Markii. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/celmisia-markii/
• Department of Conservation. (n.d.). Celmisia Markii. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-plants/celmisia-markii/
• Riley, H. P. (2015). The Celmisia Chronicles. Wellington, N.Z.: Victoria University Press.