Norwegian arctic cudweed
Omalotheca norvegica · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant norwegian arctic cudweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Evergreen, downy and silvery
- Flowering
- June to September, small white or cream flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, tolerates down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Mountainous and arctic regions of Northern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, dry to moderately moist, chalky or neutral
Care
Watering
Norwegian cudweed prefers dry to moderately moist soil. Water moderately during the growing season, avoiding excess water that promotes root rot. In autumn and winter, considerably reduce watering. An established plant tolerates dry periods very well.
Light exposure
This plant demands full sun exposure, at least 6 hours of direct light per day, to develop its beautiful silvery foliage and generous flowering. Intense sun also strengthens its hardiness and vigor. It can tolerate slight partial shade, but flowering will be less abundant.
Soil
Prepare well-drained, gravelly or sandy soil, preferably chalky or neutral. Avoid heavy or constantly moist soils. Amending with sand or gravel improves permeability and promotes good root development.
Pruning and cutting
Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering and better branching. In late winter or early spring, lightly prune the clump to densify it and rejuvenate the plant. Avoid severe pruning that could weaken the plant.
Fertilizer
Norwegian cudweed is undemanding. A balanced fertilizer application in spring is more than sufficient. Too much organic matter or nitrogen promotes lush foliage at the expense of flowering. Naturally fertile soils generally don't require additional feeding.
Diseases and pests
This is a very robust plant, rarely affected by major diseases or pests. Excessive moisture is its main enemy and can promote rot. With persistent humidity, improve drainage or reduce watering. Aphids may occasionally colonize it; a water spray is generally enough to eliminate them.
Did you know?
The Omalotheca genus originates from the mountains and arctic regions of Northern Europe. Norwegian cudweed has traditionally been used in Nordic herbal medicine for centuries for its supposed soothing properties. Its common name "cudweed" derives from the Greek gnaphalon, meaning "down," referring to its foliage covered with fine silvery hairs that give it a remarkable texture and protect the plant against harsh 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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.