Scotch false asphodel
Tofieldia pusilla · Tofieldiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant scotch false asphodel: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, herbaceous
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August)
- Adult size
- 10 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 2-3)
- Origin
- Boreal and arctic regions of the North
- Soil type
- Moist, peaty, acidic
Care
Soil
Tofieldia pusilla requires constantly moist soil, ideally peaty or rich in organic matter, with an acidic to neutral pH. Avoid chalky and well-drained soils that won't suit this wetland plant.
Watering
Keep the soil moist at all times, especially during the growing season. This plant thrives in marshy conditions or near water sources. During dry spells, water regularly to never let the soil dry out completely.
Light exposure
Place Tofieldia pusilla in a partially shaded to sunny location, depending on your local climate. In warm regions, favour partial shade to prevent excessive drying. However, good light exposure benefits optimal flowering.
Fertilizing
This plant from naturally poor environments doesn't need regular fertilizer. A modest application of well-decomposed compost in spring is more than enough. Avoid overly concentrated fertilizers that could upset the soil's pH balance.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is needed. Simply remove spent flowers and dead leaves at the end of the season to maintain hygiene. This small herbaceous plant naturally fades away when the cold arrives.
Diseases and pests
Tofieldia pusilla is generally very hardy and rarely susceptible to diseases. Soil that's too dry promotes rot problems. Stagnant excess moisture can create favourable conditions for mold; ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
Tofieldia pusilla is named after Swedish botanist Tofield and grows naturally in arctic and subarctic peatlands, where it has developed a remarkable ability to thrive in frozen soils for much of the year. This discreet little herbaceous plant is a true witness to boreal ecosystems, capable of surviving extreme conditions that few plants can tolerate.
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
- Tofield's asphodelTofieldia calyculata
- BoxwoodBuxus sempervirens
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- SageSalvia officinalis
- GrapevineVitis vinifera
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.