About 65 species in New Zealand, three or more in Australia. Celmisia is perhaps the most characteristic alpine genus of New Zealand. Although a few species occur at low altitudes, most are restricted to the mountains, where they form an important part of many communities; often eight or more species occur together, and hybridization is common. All species are evergreen perennials or shrubs with daisy flowers which are always white. The leaves are entire or slightly toothed, very frequently silvery or white below or on both surfaces with appressed silky to woolly hairs. All species are probably self-sterile, only setting fertile seed when crossed. It follows that most seed set in gardens is hybrid, unless a number of seedlings of the same species are grown together.
The larger species are spectacular subjects for the peat bed, woodland garden or the larger rock garden. They are particularly valuable in winter for their foliage, having architectural shapes which gleam through murky light. They combine well with other evergreen foliage plants, especially fellow New Zealanders. Some woody species make excellent dry wall subjects, while the smaller species are suitable for raised beds, troughs, and make good exhibition plants in pots, although few enjoy the dry air of the alpine house. Most species flourish outside without protection in northern England, Scotland and Ireland, requiring little more than a fairly well drained water-retentive site in reasonably light. Soils varying from pure peat or leafmould to a rather lean scree are successful; most species are surprisingly hardy, and tolerate hot spells, but they grow best in humid conditions, appreciating spraying with rainwater, and they must never dry out. In southern England they prefer semi-shaded sites and grow well in peat beds. For pot culture, a plastic pot and a humus-rich compost with one third grit is suitable. In summer, pot plants should be partially shaded and plunged in the open. In winter, most species do not require or even appreciate glass, but should be placed in good light. Plants do not respond to overfeeding, and nitrogen-rich composts lead to rot (not otherwise a problem) and poor flowering. Propagation by seed when ripe or spring or cuttings in late spring (although any time of year can be successful), preferably in the open garden. Species with pseudostems also rather improbably respond well to this technique. Until established the cuttings appreciate regular watering. Seed should be checked for fertility, and is best sown as soon as ripe.
a, C. grandulosa; b, C. lateralis;
