Alpine Rock Jasmine
androsace alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Androsace","Rock Jasmine"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to alpine regions, characterized by small, fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Androsace |
| Botanical Name: | Androsace alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-aerated.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun or filtered light; protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; avoid direct midday sun to prevent scorching; for indoor plants, place near east-facing windows or use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use shade cloth outdoors in summer; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
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 regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool temperatures preferred, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild frost but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and shaded.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when temperatures are mild.
Environment
Warm, humid, and shaded; maintain 65–75°F (18–24°C) with high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may form in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip selectively to shape; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape gently; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with loose textures.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; blackened leaves or root rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing root damage and susceptibility to rot in waterlogged soil.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and premature flowering cessation due to heat shock.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (half-strength) monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAndrosace alpina is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAndrosace alpina is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAndrosace alpina is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not commonly used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Androsace alpina require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, especially in cooler climates.
Q: How often should I water Androsace alpina?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings; overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Is Androsace alpina suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is an excellent choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and alpine origins.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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