Celmisia alpina, or mountain daisy, is a species of perennial flower that is endemic to New Zealand. Description. A small flower with white petals and a yellow central flower head. The flower is a perennial. The small size and narrow, linear leaves can be used to identify this flower in the field. Distribution and habitat. "Celmisia alpina" is found on the South Island and Stewart Island. It is widespread, and is not considered threatened. It is found in montane and alpine regions, particularly poorly-drained ones. Etymology. "alpina" is a reference to the alpine environment of the Southern Alps, where this flower is found. The Southern Alps were named after the Alps, from which the Latin term is ultimately derived. Taxonomy. "Celmisia alpina" is part of a wider "Celmisia" complex including "Celmisia gracilenta", "C. graminifolia", and "C. setacea". Further work elucidating relationships is necessary. The basionym is "Celmisia longifolia var. alpina" Kirk.