Alpine mouse-ear
Cerastium alpinum · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant alpine mouse-ear: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Type
- Alpine herbaceous
- Foliage
- Persistent, finely pubescent
- Flowering
- June to August
- Adult size
- 5-15 cm tall, compact habit
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 3-4)
- Origin
- Mountains of Europe (Alps, Pyrenees)
- Growth
- Slow
Care
Exposure and climate
Alpine cerastium thrives in full sun, ideally in a mountain or high altitude location. This plant dislikes excess heat and stagnant humidity. Choose an airy, cool spot.
Soil and drainage
Plant in well-drained, poor to average soil, preferably calcareous or neutral. This alpine adapts well to rocky and gravelly substrates. Poor drainage quickly causes root rot.
Watering
Water moderately when planting and during dry spells. Once established, this plant is very drought-tolerant thanks to its fleshy leaves. Significantly reduce watering in autumn and winter.
Fertilization
No fertilizer is necessary. These alpine plants prefer poor soil. Excessive nitrogen promotes soft foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cleanup
Remove spent flowers to extend blooming and maintain a compact form. Cut back dead or damaged foliage in early spring. No severe pruning is needed.
Pests and diseases
This plant is generally robust. Monitor excessive moisture which can promote root rot or fungal diseases. Ensure optimal drainage and adequate air circulation.
Did you know?
Alpine cerastium bears a name that evokes its mountain origins: 'cerasus' recalls cherry in Latin. This little white flower grows naturally in rock crevices of Europe's highest altitudes, where it has developed remarkable hardiness against extreme conditions.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Smooth rupturewortHerniaria glabra
- Rock soapwortSaponaria ocymoides
- Snow-in-summerCerastium tomentosum
- Sticky CatchflyViscaria vulgaris
- Creeping baby's breathGypsophila repens
- Mountain sandwortArenaria montana
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.