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Description
Cassiope Selaginoides, commonly known as the White Mountain Heather or the Mountain Cassiope, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to Alaska and Western Canada, specifically in the subalpine and alpine zones of the White and Rocky Mountains.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Cassiope |
Appearance
Cassiope Selaginoides is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of 4-8 inches and a spread of 12-18 inches. It has small, needle-like leaves that are dark green in color and arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The leaves are also covered in fine hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. In the summer, the plant bears clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that are white or pink in color and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Water: Cassiope Selaginoides prefers well-draining soil that is kept slightly moist but not wet. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer.
Soil: Cassiope Selaginoides prefers acidic, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial to full shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Cassiope Selaginoides is hardy in USDA zones 2-6.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cassiope Selaginoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and leaf spot may also be a problem in hot, humid conditions.
Habitat
Cassiope Selaginoides is native to the subalpine and alpine zones of the White and Rocky Mountains in Alaska and Western Canada. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cassiope Selaginoides deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Cassiope Selaginoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should Cassiope Selaginoides be pruned?
A: Cassiope Selaginoides does not require regular pruning but can be pruned lightly in the spring to maintain its shape.
Q: Can Cassiope Selaginoides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Cassiope Lycopodioides
- Cassiope Mertensiana
- Cassiope Stelleriana
References
- “Cassiope Selaginoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c792.
- “Cassiope Selaginoides.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/cassiope-plant-profile-4767503.
- “Cassiope Selaginoides.” Plant Lust, plantlust.com/plants/cassiope-selaginoides/.
