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Description
Celmisia Argentea, commonly known as the Silver-leaved Mountain Daisy, is a beautiful flowering plant native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its striking silver-grey foliage and delicate pink or white flowers. The plant typically grows up to 50 cm tall and has a dense rosette of leaves at its base. The flowers bloom in early summer and attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Celmisia |
Appearance
The Celmisia Argentea is a stunning plant with silver-grey foliage that can grow up to 15 cm long and 3 cm wide. The leaves are thick and leathery, with a woolly texture on the underside. The flowers bloom on tall stems that can reach up to 50 cm in height. The flowers are small and come in shades of pink or white, with yellow centers. The plant also produces small, fluffy seed heads that can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Celmisia Argentea is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and moist but not waterlogged. The plant also needs plenty of sunlight to thrive, so it should be placed in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures down to -12°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Celmisia Argentea is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering the plant too frequently. If pests do become a problem, they can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Celmisia Argentea is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in alpine and subalpine regions. It prefers rocky, well-draining soil and can be found growing on mountain slopes, ridges, and plateaus. The plant is adapted to cold, windy, and snowy conditions and can survive in harsh environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Celmisia Argentea be grown indoors?
A: While Celmisia Argentea can be grown indoors, it prefers to be outside in a sunny location.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Celmisia Argentea?
A: Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Q: Can Celmisia Argentea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Celmisia Argentea can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Q: How often should I water my Celmisia Argentea?
A: Celmisia Argentea prefers moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Celmisia Spectabilis
- Celmisia Walkeri
- Celmisia Haastii
- Celmisia Dallii
References
- “Celmisia Argentea.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/celmisia-argentea/
- “Celmisia Argentea.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9760/Celmisia-argentea/Details
- “Celmisia Argentea.” Pacific Bulb Society. http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/CelmisiaArgentea
