Androsace Spinulifera

Description

Androsace Spinulifera, also known as Spiny Androsace, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. The plant typically grows up to 5 cm tall and 10 cm wide, and produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Ericales
Family	Primulaceae
Genus	Androsace

Appearance

Androsace Spinulifera has small, spiny leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are green and have bristly hairs on the surface, which protect the plant from harsh weather conditions. The flowers are pink or purple, and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. Each flower has five petals and a yellow center. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, and its foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season.

Care Guide

Water: Androsace Spinulifera prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

Sunlight: Androsace Spinulifera prefers full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Androsace Spinulifera is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot diseases. It may also be attacked by aphids and spider mites. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant is grown in well-drained soil, and avoid overwatering. If you notice signs of pest infestation or disease, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.

Habitat

Androsace Spinulifera is native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil at high elevations. The plant is adapted to cold weather and can withstand frost and snow.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Androsace Spinulifera a good plant for rock gardens?

A: Yes, Androsace Spinulifera is an excellent plant for rock gardens, as it prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions.

Q: Does Androsace Spinulifera attract bees and butterflies?

A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, and can help support local pollinator populations.

Q: Can Androsace Spinulifera be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is well-drained and the container has good drainage holes.

Q: How often should Androsace Spinulifera be fertilized?

A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

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

References

• “Androsace Spinulifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 27 Jan. 2022.
• “Androsace Spinulifera.” Plant Finder. Sunset, n.d. Web. 27 Jan. 2022.
• “Androsace Spinulifera.” Royal Horticultural Society. Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 27 Jan. 2022.