Vandell's Androsace
androsace vandellii
Also known as: ["Vandell's Rock Jasmine"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to the Pyrenees and other mountainous regions of Europe, characterized by its rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves and small, white, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Androsace |
| Botanical Name: | Androsace vandellii |
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":"5–8"}
- 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. A mix of cactus soil and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure gradually to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense light slowly over 1–2 weeks; avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled shade in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water early in the day to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that dries out between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures for optimal growth.
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 for succulent-like plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. Stem cuttings root easily in well-draining medium.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Semi-moist cactus mix or perlite and peat moss blend.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium lightly moist, not wet; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip with clean shears just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or leggy growth. Encourages bushier growth and prevents overcrowding.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Ensure proper drainage to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter. Adjust based on humidity and growth phase.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in excessive heat; leaf discoloration or rot in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause root damage, especially if combined with wet soil. Frost can damage foliage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cold frame or indoor placement; ensure soil is not waterlogged in cold conditions; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering, stressing the plant and reducing vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate ventilation; water more frequently if heat persists.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAndrosace vandellii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAndrosace vandellii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAndrosace vandellii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Androsace vandellii?
A: It thrives in alpine or rock garden conditions with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Androsace vandellii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small white flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Is Androsace vandellii suitable for beginners?
A: It is best suited for intermediate gardeners due to its specific alpine requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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