Large Androsace

androsace maxima

Also known as: ["Mountain Rock Jasmine"]

Family: Primulaceae Genus: Androsace Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing perennial herb native to mountainous regions, characterized by its rosettes of fleshy leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Primulaceae
Genus: Androsace
Botanical Name: Androsace maxima

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit for drainage.

Temperature

Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.

Quick Tips

Use healthy parent material; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems or trim selectively to maintain shape.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape as needed.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.

Checklist

Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand 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 root rot in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Androsace maxima may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations. It can also be a sign of stress from environmental factors such as excessive sunlight or poor soil conditions.

Wilting in Androsace maxima is often a response to water stress, either from drought or overwatering. It can also result from root damage or pest infestations that disrupt water uptake.

Leaf spots on Androsace maxima may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by high humidity or poor air circulation. These spots can lead to defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Androsace maxima due to overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Androsace maxima is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats that may come into contact with this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Androsace maxima is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs that may come into contact with this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Androsace maxima is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has not been documented to cause adverse physiological effects when ingested.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for human handling or consumption of this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Androsace maxima suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, it thrives in rock gardens due to its preference for well-drained, rocky soils.

Q: How often should Androsace maxima be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in cooler months.

Q: Does Androsace maxima attract pollinators?

A: Yes, its small, star-shaped flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Quick Reference
Family: Primulaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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