Cynanchica pyrenaica
Cynanchica pyrenaica · Rubiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cynanchica pyrenaica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Pyrenean squine grass
- Family
- Rubiaceae
- Plant type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Flowering
- June to August, small pink or white flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (−20 °C)
- Origin
- Pyrenees mountain range, mountain zones
Care
Light and exposure
Place in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. Well-lit spots promote compact growth and abundant flowers. It tolerates partially shaded areas but flowers less generously there.
Soil and drainage
Prefers well-drained, dry to moderately moist soil, ideally chalky or neutral. Dislikes excessive winter moisture. An excellent choice for rock gardens, scree slopes, or poor soils where many other plants struggle.
Watering
Low to moderate. Water regularly during the first year to establish a good root system. Afterward, reduce watering: only a prolonged drought during summer heat justifies supplemental watering.
Fertilizing
Undemanding. A light application of compost in spring is sufficient. Avoid rich fertilizers that promote foliage at the expense of flowering and reduce hardiness.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain compact shape. Remove dry stems after winter. Cutting back or cleaning up after flowering can stimulate a second flush of blooms.
Pests and diseases
Very resistant to diseases in appropriate conditions. Check for excess moisture that could promote root rot. Generally rarely attacked by pests.
Did you know?
Cynanchica pyrenaica is among the small alpine herbaceous plants that have colonized the chalky screes of the Pyrenees for millennia. Its name "Cynanchica" may come from Greek meaning "dog's disease," as ancient herbalists attributed healing properties to it. Today, this robust and delicate plant is prized by rock garden enthusiasts and mountain flora lovers, a living symbol of botanical adaptation at altitude.
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
- Sweet woodruffGalium odoratum
- PartridgeberryMitchella repens
- ButtonbushCephalanthus occidentalis
- Arabica coffeeCoffea arabica
- Cape jasmineGardenia jasminoides
- Caucasian crosswortPhuopsis stylosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.