Dwarf Soldanella
soldanella pusilla
Also known as: ["Alpine Soldanella","Pygmy Soldanella"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial native to alpine regions of Europe, characterized by its delicate, bell-shaped flowers and basal rosettes of leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Soldanella |
| Botanical Name: | Soldanella pusilla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or cool greenhouse
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–20°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, humusy, well-draining soil with organic matter like leaf mold or peat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers bright, indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter conditions; protect from harsh midday sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or north-facing indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; keep in cooler, shaded areas.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water less in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use peat-based mix; ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers consistent cool conditions.
Keep in cool, shaded spots; protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Plant seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Provide indirect light.
Best Time: Early spring when new growth begins.
Environment
Cool, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 4–8 weeks, establishment in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, small pots, seed trays, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Divide only when overcrowded; use fresh seed for best germination; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off damaged leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged leaves; sanitize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when overcrowded or every 2–3 years to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and early summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost or leaf mold; incorporate perlite for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dormancy if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; maintain consistent cool temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat above 75°F (24°C).
Solution: Move to a cooler location; increase humidity; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently if in a warmer environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume Soldanella pusilla. The saponins in the plant can irritate the digestive tract, though severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Soldanella pusilla may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSoldanella pusilla contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort rather than severe toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Soldanella pusilla native to?
A: It is native to alpine regions of Europe.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in cool, moist, well-drained soils in partial to full shade, typical of alpine environments.
Q: Is Soldanella pusilla toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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