Hornungia alpina
Hornungia alpina · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hornungia alpina: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Alpine Basket
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Perennial herb
- Mature height
- 10 to 20 cm
- Flowering
- April to June
- Flower color
- Cream white
- Hardiness
- -20 °C
- Origin
- Alps and mountains of central Europe
Care
Sunlight
Position Hornungia alpina in full sun or light partial shade for generous flowering. This alpine plant appreciates well-ventilated locations that limit stagnant moisture. Avoid dense shade, which would slow growth and reduce flower production.
Soil and drainage
Well-draining, light soil is essential for this mountain species. Enrich the soil with gravel or coarse sand if it's too compact. This plant tolerates poor, rocky soils characteristic of its natural environment.
Watering
Water moderately during the active growing period, keeping the soil lightly moist without excess. Reduce watering in winter and after flowering. Take care never to create water stagnation, which would encourage root rot.
Pruning and cleanup
Regularly remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period and encourage new blooms. Clean up dead or damaged leaves in spring to keep the plant compact and healthy. No drastic pruning is necessary.
Feeding
Hornungia alpina has modest nutritional needs. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would encourage foliage at the expense of flowering.
Disease prevention
This mountain plant is generally robust. Good drainage and sufficient air circulation prevent most fungal problems. Occasionally inspect young shoots for pests and promptly remove any affected parts.
Did you know?
Hornungia alpina, though modest in appearance, is an ice age relic that survived at high altitude on the rocky slopes of the Alps. Its common name 'Alpine Basket' evokes its small, tight flower clusters, while its family, Brassicaceae, also includes cabbage and watercress, sharing with them a surprising ability to adapt to extreme environments.
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
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- Rocket SaladEruca sativa
- WasabiEutrema japonicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.