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Description
Saussurea Alpina, commonly known as the Alpine Saw-wort, is a unique and striking plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the high-altitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including the Himalayas, Alps, and Rocky Mountains. It is a hardy perennial plant that can survive in harsh conditions, making it a popular choice among gardeners who want to add a touch of alpine beauty to their landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Saussurea |
Appearance
The Saussurea Alpina plant is a low-growing perennial that can reach a height of up to 30 cm. Its leaves are basal and form a rosette, with the upper surface being dark green and the lower surface covered in fine hairs. The flowers of this plant are the main attraction, with each flower head measuring around 3 cm in diameter. The flowers are a beautiful shade of blue-purple, and the bracts that surround them are spiky and silver-grey in color, giving them a striking appearance.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Saussurea Alpina plant thrives, you need to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The Saussurea Alpina plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist. Avoid watering it too much or letting the soil dry out completely.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to give it a boost.- Soil: The Saussurea Alpina plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can also tolerate poor soil conditions.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: The Saussurea Alpina plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Saussurea Alpina plant is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can sometimes be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that your plant is well-ventilated and not overcrowded. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests if necessary.
Habitat
The Saussurea Alpina plant is native to the high-altitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including the Himalayas, Alps, and Rocky Mountains. It grows in rocky and gravelly soils and can tolerate extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. This plant is well-adapted to its alpine habitat and is often found growing in meadows, on rocky slopes, and near glaciers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Saussurea Alpina plant?
A: The Saussurea Alpina plant prefers to be kept moist, but you should avoid overwatering it. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can I grow Saussurea Alpina in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Saussurea Alpina in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and is not overcrowded.
Q: Does Saussurea Alpina attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Saussurea Alpina is a pollinator-friendly plant and attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Q: How long does Saussurea Alpina bloom?
A: Saussurea Alpina blooms from mid-summer to early fall, with each flower head lasting for several weeks.
Related Plants
– Saussurea costus- Saussurea gossypiphora- Saussurea involucrata- Saussurea medusa- Saussurea nigrescens
References
– Flora of China. (2011). Saussurea alpina. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200023157- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Saussurea alpina. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21281/Saussurea-alpina/Details- The Alpine Garden Society. (n.d.). Saussurea alpina. Retrieved from https://www.alpinegardensociety.net/plants/saussurea/alpina/
