Species Lessing's Arnica
bright-yellow flowers with dark-yellow center and stamens, green leaves and stems

Lessing's Arnica

Arnica lessingii

Also Known As - Purple Arnica
Lessing's Arnica (Arnica lessingii) is a low-growing perennial plant found in the western United States and western Canada. It has flat, white flowers with bright yellow tips. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a dull-green color. Lessing's Arnica grows in rocky, dry soils and is drought tolerant. This plant is easy to grow and can be used as a ground cover or as part of a border. It is especially useful in rock gardens and other areas with poor soil and is both attractive and low maintenance. Lessing's Arnica is an easy-care plant that will add a bright spot of color to your garden.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Lessing's Arnica should be watered once every 1-2 weeks throughout its growing season (spring through early summer). Make sure the soil is completely dry before you water, and when you do water, give it enough to soak the root system completely. Avoid watering during midday when temperatures may be hot, instead water early in the morning or late in the evening. During winter months, reduce watering frequency until the plant enters its dormant period. Over-watering can cause root rot, so consider using a moisture-meter to check the soil before deciding to water.

sunlight

Lessing's Arnica is a plant species that requires full sunlight in order to thrive. The plant should be kept in direct sunlight for a minimum of 6-8 hours each day. During the summer months, when the days are longer, Lessing's Arnica should be placed in full sun up to 10-12 hours each day. During the winter months when days are shorter, the plant should be kept in as much sunlight as possible, though no less than 6 to 8 hours. As with all plants, Lessing's Arnica should be rotated occasionally to promote even growth.

pruning

Lessing's Arnica is typically pruned in the spring and fall for the best results. Pruning in the spring can help to encourage healthy new growth and can also help to keep the plant looking attractive and neat. When pruning in the spring, trim off any dead or weakened stems, remove any overly crowded stems, and shape the plant as desired. In the fall, prune back the tops of the stems to prepare the plant for winter and encourage bushiness. However, be careful not to prune too much so that the plant is weakened. Also take care not to prune off any flower buds that may be forming.