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Description
Douglasia Laevigata, also known as Smooth Douglasia, is a small, mat-forming plant that belongs to the family of Primulaceae. It is native to the Rocky Mountains in North America and is a popular choice for rock gardens. It typically grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall and 12 inches (30 cm) wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Douglasia |
Appearance
Douglasia Laevigata has small, round, green leaves that are about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long. The leaves are smooth and have a waxy texture. The plant produces small, pink or white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide and have five petals. The plant’s foliage turns bronze or red in the fall.
Care Guide
Water: Douglasia Laevigata prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Soil: Douglasia Laevigata prefers well-drained, acidic soil. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting, if necessary.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may require some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Douglasia Laevigata is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Douglasia Laevigata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, slugs, or snails. To prevent these pests, keep the plant’s foliage dry and remove any debris from the garden bed. If necessary, use an insecticidal soap or a slug and snail bait to control infestations.
Habitat
Douglasia Laevigata is native to the Rocky Mountains in North America. It grows in alpine and subalpine meadows, rocky slopes, and crevices. The plant is adapted to thrive in harsh, dry climates and is often found growing in gravelly or sandy soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Douglasia Laevigata a good choice for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Douglasia Laevigata is a great choice for rock gardens. It is a small, mat-forming plant that looks stunning when planted in crevices or along rock walls.
Q: How often should I water Douglasia Laevigata?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Douglasia Laevigata require full sun or partial shade?
A: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may require some afternoon shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Douglasia Laevigata?
A: Douglasia Laevigata is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Douglasia Montana
- Douglasia Brevifolia
- Douglasia Occidentalis
References
- “Douglasia Laevigata (Smooth Douglasia).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c962.
- “Douglasia Laevigata.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/63057/.
