Adenostyles alpina
Adenostyles alpina · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant adenostyles alpina: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-20 °C and below)
- Origin
- Mountain ranges of central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist, especially during the growing season and in dry summers. Reduce watering in winter once the plant is dormant. Avoid standing water that would promote root rot.
Light exposure
Plant in partial shade to shade, particularly in regions with hot summers. In mountains or cool climates, a sunny exposure is acceptable. This plant enjoys areas protected from the scorching afternoon sun.
Soil and drainage
Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root asphyxiation. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils and dislikes excessively chalky soils.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. Cut back the clump to ground level in late autumn or early spring. Eliminate dead or damaged stems as the plant emerges from winter.
Fertilization
An annual application of well-decomposed compost in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering. A moderate balance suits this mountain plant.
Diseases and pests
Rarely affected if drainage conditions are good. Watch for slugs and snails, particularly in spring. Powdery mildew may appear if there is stagnant moisture; ensure the clump is well ventilated.
Did you know?
Alpine Adenostyle was traditionally used by mountain dwellers as a folk remedy to stimulate appetite and aid digestion. Its scientific name Adenostyles comes from the Greek 'aden' (gland) and 'stylos' (style), referring to the distinctive glandular structures of the flower.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.