Yellow Mountain Star
androsace vitaliana
Also known as: ["Mountain Star","Yellow Androsace"]
Overview
A small, cushion-forming perennial with bright yellow flowers, native to alpine and subalpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Androsace |
| Botanical Name: | Androsace vitaliana |
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":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead parts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; rotate plant for even exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, gritty, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; use a cactus or succulent soil base.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild frost but avoid prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
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 mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
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 moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back spent flower stems and any discolored or dead foliage.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead growth; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure it’s not too large.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out roots; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture reaches the root ball without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning or blackening of leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water early in the day 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 active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAndrosace vitaliana is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAndrosace vitaliana is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAndrosace vitaliana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no documented adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Androsace vitaliana suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rock gardens and alpine settings due to its preference for well-drained, rocky soils.
Q: How often should I water Androsace vitaliana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Androsace vitaliana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its bright yellow flowers are highly attractive to 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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