Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa

Description

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa, also known as Mount Cook Lily or Haast’s Celmisia, is a perennial flowering plant native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a close relative of daisies and sunflowers. This plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a woody stem with silver-grey leaves that are densely covered in woolly hairs. The flowers are large and white, with a yellow center, and bloom from December to February.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa has a striking appearance with its silver-grey leaves and large white flowers. The leaves are 5-15 cm long and 1-3 cm wide, and are covered in dense woolly hairs that protect the plant from harsh alpine conditions. The flowers are daisy-like, with 10-20 petals that are 2-4 cm long, and a yellow center. The plant blooms from December to February and can grow up to 1 meter tall.

Care Guide

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa is a hardy plant that can tolerate cold and harsh conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water

This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant when the soil is dry, and make sure the water drains away from the roots.

Fertilization

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa does not require fertilizer, as it can obtain nutrients from the soil. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage growth.

Soil

This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can add some sand or gravel to the soil to improve drainage.

Sunlight

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and poor flowering.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C to -1°C.

Common Pests & Diseases

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa is generally a healthy plant that does not suffer from many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, and it can be eaten by slugs and snails.

Habitat

Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa is native to New Zealand and is found in alpine and subalpine areas, where it can tolerate cold and harsh conditions. It grows in rocky soils and can be found on mountainsides and in open grasslands.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa a rare plant?

A: Yes, this plant is considered rare and is protected under New Zealand law.

Q: Can I grow Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container, as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.

Q: Does Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, this plant can attract bees and other pollinators.

Q: How often should I water Celmisia Haastii Var. Tomentosa?

A: Water the plant when the soil is dry, but be careful not to overwater it.

Related Plants

• Celmisia Hookeri
• Celmisia Lyallii
• Celmisia Semicordata
• Celmisia Spectabilis

References

• https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/celmisia-haastii-var-tomentosa/
• https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/222253/i-celmisia-haastii-i-var-i-tomentosa-i/details
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/root-rot-in-garden-plants.htm