Rock Jasmine
androsace chamaejasme
Also known as: ["Rock Jasmine","Alpine Rock Jasmine"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine regions, characterized by its rosettes of fleshy leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Genus: | Androsace |
| Botanical Name: | Androsace chamaejasme |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in a cool, bright spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°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: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours/day). Adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours; ideal for rock gardens or alpine troughs.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid deep shade; protect from harsh midday sun; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize dry periods over strict schedules.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C). Tolerates frost but prefers cool conditions over heat.
Keep cool in summer; protect from extreme cold; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves; trim back straggly stems to encourage compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove dead leaves; trim overgrown stems; clean tools before and after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or soil degrades. Typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or rot in overly cold/wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but are tolerated. Prolonged cold with wet soil can cause root rot.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from excessive moisture in cold; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause scorching, wilting, or dormancy. Heat stress is more damaging than cold stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water carefully to avoid heat shock.
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/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest parts of Androsace chamaejasme. The plant poses a low risk but should still be handled with care.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Androsace chamaejasme may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but caution is advised.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAndrosace chamaejasme contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Androsace chamaejasme toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in alpine or rock garden settings with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Primulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
