Alpine Catchfly
viscaria alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Silene","Mountain Catchfly"]
Overview
A hardy annual or short-lived perennial with delicate pink or white flowers, native to alpine regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Viscaria |
| Botanical Name: | Viscaria alpina |
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":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid overwatering; check drainage regularly.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler nights and tolerates frost.
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to encourage bushier plants; shape as needed for aesthetic purposes.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid sudden temperature drops; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicViscaria alpina is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested by felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicViscaria alpina is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested by canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViscaria alpina is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Viscaria alpina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: It is low maintenance and quite tough once established.
Q: Where is Viscaria alpina best suited?
A: It thrives in alpine or cold climates and is ideal for rock gardens or borders.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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