[2] The leaves have rolled encircled leaf sheath which are pale, thin, or slightly hairy.

[3] The upper leaf surface is layered with a silvery membrane and the underside is covered with white hairs.

[10] Celmisia gracilenta is widespread below the Coromandel Peninsula to subalpine herbfield and tussockland areas.

Celmisia gracilenta has leaves and stalks with soft down which protects the plant from the complex mountain climate.

They have lighter seeds with more bristles, larger disc/ray flower ratios with a smaller capitula and taller scape.

[14] Celmisia gracilenta is found in areas of varying soil types and different levels of nutrients, water and environmental conditions.

Celmisia gracilenta is abundant on valley grasslands and central hill country in South Island high rainfall regions and volcanic plateau.

[11] Celmisia gracilenta is found around southern eastern hill country and mountains which is higher elevation with moderate solar radiation.

[11] Celmisia gracilenta appears to be more a generalist in alpine areas in relation to the soil, water, and environmental conditions.

[3] This daisy species was discovered on hills near Queen Charlotte Sound on Captain James Cook expedition done in March 1770.

[2] Celmisia gracilenta still grows in the Marlborough Sounds but is less common due to introduction of stock, game-animals, and agricultural implements.

Kelmis can be seen offending Zeus who turned him so he was hard as a tempered blade (flattened part of a leaf).