Species Alpine Pincushion
white flowers with white-green buds, green foliage and green-brown stems

Alpine Pincushion

Chaenactis douglasii var. douglasii

Also Known As - Hoary False Yarrow,Douglas' Dustymaiden
Alpine Pincushion (Chaenactis douglasii var. douglasii) is a beautiful flowering perennial native to the Western United States and Southwest Canada. These plants grow in meadows and dry rocky slopes, and typically bloom a white/pink daisy-like flowers in early summer. They are low-growing, forming a mound of grey/green textured foliage when not in bloom. The flowers are excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and some species of butterflies, making them great for the garden. They are hardy and generally require little maintenance, thriving in well-drained soil and plenty of sun.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Watering for Alpine Pincushion can vary depending on the soil and climate conditions. Generally, it should be watered once a week during the first month after it is planted. During the warmer months (April - August) it should be watered about every 5-7 days as necessary. Decrease the frequency of watering during the cooler months (September - March), only watering when the soil is dry to the touch. To ensure adequate soil moisture, you may need to water twice a week when temperatures are hot and dry. Allow the soil to dry slightly in between waterings. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot and other health issues.

sunlight

Alpine Pincushion (Chaenactis douglasii var. douglasii) grows best in full sun, which means it should receive 8 or more hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideal locations for these plants are south- or west-facing slopes; however, locations with some shade are also suitable. For maximum flowering potential, it is important to provide ample sunlight. When planted in the shade or with only partial sunlight, the plants will still grow, but flowering will be greatly diminished. In order for the plant to thrive and create vibrant blooms, it is best to give the plant at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably between the hours of 8am and 6pm.

pruning

Alpine Pincushion (Chaenactis douglasii var. douglasii) should be pruned during spring and summer, after the plant has finished blooming. Remove dead, diseased, and damaged stems and branches as needed throughout the season. Pruning should be done lightly to promote branching and flowering. Lightly tip-prune flowering stems to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Keep the plant's size and shape in check by removing the tallest flower stalks in late spring to mid-summer. Deadheading (removing spent blooms) is also beneficial for promoting the plant's overall health.