Celmisia Walkeri

Description

Celmisia Walkeri is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the South Island of New Zealand. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is also known as the Mount Cook Lily. This plant is popular among gardeners due to its unique appearance and hardiness.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Celmisia Walkeri grows up to 60 cm in height and can spread up to 50 cm. It has a basal rosette of leaves that are green and leathery in texture. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 30 cm long and 5 cm wide. The plant produces a flowering stalk that can grow up to 60 cm tall. The flowers are white and daisy-like, with a yellow center. They bloom in the late spring or early summer.

Care Guide

Celmisia Walkeri is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you keep this plant healthy:

Water: Celmisia Walkeri prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater it.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil: Celmisia Walkeri prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does best in slightly acidic soil.

Sunlight: Celmisia Walkeri prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.

Hardiness Zones: Celmisia Walkeri is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Celmisia Walkeri is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Celmisia Walkeri is native to the South Island of New Zealand and grows in alpine and subalpine areas. It is commonly found on rocky slopes and in herbfields.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Celmisia Walkeri grow in containers?

A: Yes, Celmisia Walkeri can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than if it were planted in the ground.

Q: Is Celmisia Walkeri deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Celmisia Walkeri is deer-resistant due to its leathery leaves and bitter taste.

Q: Can Celmisia Walkeri be grown from seed?

A: Yes, Celmisia Walkeri can be grown from seed, but it may take several years for the plant to reach maturity.

Q: How often should I prune Celmisia Walkeri?

A: Celmisia Walkeri does not require regular pruning. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Celmisia Walkeri:

• Celmisia haastii
• Celmisia semicordata
• Celmisia spectabilis
• Celmisia traversii

References

• “Celmisia Walkeri.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/celmisia-walkeri/ (accessed November 11, 2021).
• “Celmisia Walkeri.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13865/celmisia-walkeri/details (accessed November 11, 2021).
• “Celmisia Walkeri.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-celmisia-walkeri-3269227 (accessed November 11, 2021).