Alpine forget-me-not
eritrichium nanum
Also known as: ["Alpine mouse-ear","Swiss forget-me-not"]
Overview
A low-growing, cushion-forming perennial with bright blue flowers, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Eritrichium |
| Botanical Name: | Eritrichium nanum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cold climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–5"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rocky, or sandy soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh midday sun in summer. Place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if grown in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in intense heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; use alpine or succulent mixes.
Temperature
Cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -40°C (-40°F). Prefers cool conditions, ideal range 5–15°C (41–59°F).
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good air flow; maintain cool root zone.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize only during active growth; stop in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide indirect light.
Best Time: Spring, when new growth begins.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and cool temperatures (10–15°C, 50–59°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for better success.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter increase of 2–3 cm.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as Eritrichium nanum prefers being slightly root-bound. Repot every 2–3 years or if growth slows.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of organic matter if soil is too贫瘠.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; no significant signs in cold, as it is adapted to freezing temperatures.
Cold Stress
Eritrichium nanum is adapted to cold and does not typically experience cold stress. It thrives in alpine conditions.
Solution: No specific measures needed; ensure good snow cover in winter for insulation if grown in cultivation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering. Prolonged heat may weaken the plant.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase air circulation; water carefully to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEritrichium nanum is not toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicEritrichium nanum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity or adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicEritrichium nanum, commonly known as Dwarf Bluebell, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eritrichium nanum 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 Eritrichium nanum be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Eritrichium nanum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its bright blue flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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