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Description
Celmisia Densiflora, also known as the mountain daisy, is a perennial plant native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Celmisia |
Appearance
The Celmisia Densiflora has a compact growth habit, with a height of up to 30cm and a spread of up to 45cm. It has a rosette of dark green leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed at the edges. The leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. The plant produces clusters of daisy-like flowers that are white or pink in color, with yellow centers. The flowers appear in late spring and early summer, and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water: Celmisia Densiflora prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight: Celmisia Densiflora prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Celmisia Densiflora is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Celmisia Densiflora is generally pest and disease-free, but it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Spider mites and aphids may also infest the plant, particularly in dry conditions. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
Habitat
Celmisia Densiflora is native to alpine and subalpine regions of New Zealand, where it grows in rocky soil and open areas. It is well-suited to rock gardens, alpine gardens, and other areas with good drainage and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Celmisia Densiflora tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Celmisia Densiflora is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10 and can tolerate frost.
Q: How often should I water Celmisia Densiflora?
A: Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, but be careful not to overwater.
Q: Can Celmisia Densiflora be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Celmisia Densiflora can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Q: Does Celmisia Densiflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s daisy-like flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Celmisia Haastii
- Celmisia Hookeri
- Celmisia Incana
- Celmisia Spectabilis
References
- “Celmisia Densiflora.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14559/Celmisia-densiflora/Details.
- “Celmisia Densiflora.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network, www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/celmisia-densiflora/.
- “Celmisia Densiflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279817&isprofile=0&.
