Hairy Androsace
androsace villosa
Also known as: ["Rock Jasmine","Hairy Rock Jasmine"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine regions, characterized by its dense mats of hairy leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Androsace |
| Botanical Name: | Androsace villosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in a cool, bright spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°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, sandy loam with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but avoids heat stress.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove unwanted growth; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape the plant to maintain compact form.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and prevent congestion.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in heat; yellowing or root rot in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if soil freezes; increases susceptibility to disease.
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap; move to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dormancy; reduced flowering and vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAndrosace villosa is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAndrosace villosa is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAndrosace villosa is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Androsace villosa suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rock gardens due to its alpine origins and preference for well-drained soil.
Q: How often should Androsace villosa be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Androsace villosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small, star-shaped flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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