Alpine Candytuft
biscutella laevigata
Also known as: ["Alpine Biscutella","Smooth Biscutella"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to alpine regions of Europe, characterized by its yellow flowers and lobed leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Biscutella |
| Botanical Name: | Biscutella laevigata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate, focusing on selective removal of old stems and spent flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, calcareous, rocky soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from frost; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Focus on post-flowering pruning to rejuvenate the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. B. laevigata prefers slightly root-bound conditions but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if prolonged below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in damp, cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower abortion, and leaf scorch, especially with poor water management.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBiscutella laevigata is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBiscutella laevigata is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBiscutella laevigata is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Biscutella laevigata suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils typical of alpine environments.
Q: Does Biscutella laevigata require full sun?
A: Yes, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Q: How tall does Biscutella laevigata grow?
A: It typically reaches heights of 20–40 cm (8–16 inches).
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
