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Description
Dryas Integrifolia, commonly known as the Arctic Avens, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub that is native to the Arctic regions of North America and Europe. This hardy plant can withstand extreme temperatures and is often found in rocky or gravelly soils in alpine tundra or subarctic regions. The plant features small, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and are followed by fluffy seed heads that provide winter interest.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Dryas |
Appearance
The Arctic Avens has small, leathery, dark green leaves that grow in a dense mat. The plant produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that bloom in the summer and are approximately 1 inch in diameter. The flowers give way to fluffy, white seed heads that remain on the plant throughout the winter months. The plant typically grows to a height of 6-12 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches.
Care Guide
The Arctic Avens prefers well-draining soils and requires full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures, but it does require moderate watering during the growing season. Fertilization is not typically necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or by seed in the fall. It is recommended for hardiness zones 1-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arctic Avens is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Arctic Avens is native to the Arctic regions of North America and Europe, where it can be found in alpine tundra or subarctic regions. It prefers rocky or gravelly soils and can often be found growing on slopes or in crevices.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Arctic Avens a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, the Arctic Avens is an excellent choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and preference for rocky or gravelly soils.
Q: Can the Arctic Avens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Arctic Avens can be grown in containers as long as they are well-draining and the plant is not allowed to dry out.
Q: Does the Arctic Avens require winter protection?
A: No, the Arctic Avens is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures and does not require winter protection.
Q: Can the Arctic Avens be used as a groundcover?
A: Yes, the Arctic Avens is an excellent choice for use as a groundcover due to its low-growing habit and dense mat of foliage.
Related Plants
- Dryas Drummondii
- Dryas Octopetala
- Dryas X Suendermannii
References
- Arctic Avens – USDA Plants Database
- Dryas Integrifolia – Missouri Botanical Garden
- Arctic Avens – Royal Horticultural Society
