Alpine Fleabane
jacobaea alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Mugwort","Alpine Erigeron"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to alpine regions, known for its daisy-like flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Jacobaea |
| Botanical Name: | Jacobaea alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water at the base to keep foliage dry.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to 20°F (-6°C) when established.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
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; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; choose sheltered planting sites.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; 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
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Jacobaea alpina. Even small amounts can be harmful, leading to long-term health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Jacobaea alpina by dogs can lead to liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Chronic exposure may result in severe liver dysfunction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicJacobaea alpina contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The toxicity is cumulative and may not manifest immediately but can lead to chronic liver conditions over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jacobaea alpina toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Jacobaea alpina attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Jacobaea alpina?
A: It is easy to care for and requires moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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