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Description
Celmisia Traversii, also known as the Mount Cook Lily or the Giant Daisy, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in alpine and subalpine regions. The plant is known for its large white flower heads that bloom in summer and can grow up to 20cm in diameter. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its striking appearance and is often used in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Celmisia |
Appearance
Celmisia Traversii has a rosette of basal leaves that are up to 50cm long and 10cm wide. The leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. The flower stems can grow up to 1.5m tall and have large white flower heads that can grow up to 20cm in diameter. The flowers have yellow centers and are surrounded by white petals that are slightly curved. The plant blooms in summer and can attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Celmisia Traversii requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Fertilization should be done in early spring and late summer using a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Celmisia Traversii is susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Celmisia Traversii is native to New Zealand and is commonly found in alpine and subalpine regions. It grows in rocky areas and can tolerate harsh weather conditions such as high winds and low temperatures. The plant is also found in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Celmisia Traversii tolerate frost?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C.
Q: How often should Celmisia Traversii be watered?
A: The plant requires regular watering during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Q: What kind of soil does Celmisia Traversii prefer?
A: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Is Celmisia Traversii toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available on the toxicity of Celmisia Traversii to pets.
Related Plants
- Celmisia Haastii
- Celmisia Spectabilis
- Celmisia Semicordata
- Celmisia Hookeri
References
- “Celmisia Traversii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. http://nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=1961.
- “Mount Cook Lily.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16188/celmisia-traversii/details.
- “Celmisia Traversii (Mount Cook Lily).” The Florilegium Society at the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney. https://florilegium.sydney.edu.au/species/celmisia-traversii/.
