Androsace Helvetica

Description

Androsace Helvetica, also known as Swiss Rock Jasmine or Swiss Androsace, is a perennial subalpine plant native to the Alps and the Carpathians. It belongs to the Primulaceae family and is a popular choice for rock gardens due to its small size and delicate flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Androsace Helvetica grows up to 10cm in height and 20cm in width. It has small, round leaves that form a basal rosette. The leaves are hairy and range from light green to dark green in color. The plant produces clusters of small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in umbels.

Care Guide

Androsace Helvetica requires well-draining soil and should be planted in a sunny location. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering and fertilization. It is also hardy to USDA zones 3-8.

Water

Androsace Helvetica prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Water it only when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Androsace Helvetica does not require regular fertilization. However, you can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.

Soil

Androsace Helvetica requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It is best to plant the plant in a mixture of sand, gravel, and peat moss.

Sunlight

Androsace Helvetica requires full sunlight to partial shade. It is best to plant the plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Androsace Helvetica is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Androsace Helvetica is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if overwatered. It may also be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.

Habitat

Androsace Helvetica is native to the Alps and the Carpathians, where it grows in subalpine meadows and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Androsace Helvetica be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Androsace Helvetica can be grown indoors, but it requires bright sunlight and well-draining soil.

Q: How often should Androsace Helvetica be watered?

A: Androsace Helvetica should be watered only when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Is Androsace Helvetica toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Androsace Helvetica is toxic to pets, but it is best to keep pets away from the plant.

Q: Can Androsace Helvetica be propagated by cuttings?

A: Yes, Androsace Helvetica can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or fall.

Related Plants

• Androsace chamaejasme
• Androsace carnea
• Androsace sempervivoides
• Androsace villosa

References

• “Androsace Helvetica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 8, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l320
• “Androsace.” Flora of North America. Accessed August 8, 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10226
• “Androsace Helvetica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 8, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2175/Androsace-helvetica/Details