Species Ellesmere Island Braya
white flowers with lime-white filaments, yellow anthers, white buds and lime-purple sepals

Ellesmere Island Braya

Braya humilis subsp. ellesmerensis

Ellesmere Island Braya (Braya humilis subsp.ellesmerensis) is a rare, low-growing, Arctic plant that is found in the high Arctic tundra of Ellesmere Island. Its stems form rosettes just a few centimeters high but can reach 20 centimeters in width. Its grey-green leaves have an attractive, spoon-shaped form and retain moisture well. Its small, yellowish-green flowers appear in late spring and summer. The rarity of the Ellesmere Island Braya combined with its beauty, makes it a popular choice among botanists and arctic explorers.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Cones:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

Water the Ellesmere Island Braya (Braya humilis subsp. ellesmerensis) with 1/2 cup of water 2 times a month during its growing season. Water slowly and thoroughly until the entire root zone is damp but not saturated. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Reduce watering frequency in the winter when the plant is dormant. Do not let the plant dry out completely for more than a few days.

sunlight

Ellesmere Island Braya is native to the high Arctic tundra on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, Canada. This species requires full sun and is best suited to long days of summer sunlight. It thrives in regions that receive 8 to 15 hours of direct sunlight during the growing season (June-September). The optimal sun exposure in this area is south and west exposures. In areas that receive less sunshine, this plant will need extra care and attention to ensure it stays properly hydrated and does not suffer from sunburn.

pruning

Ellesmere Island Braya should be pruned after flowering. This plant species needs minimal pruning and should only be done if dead or unhealthy looking foliage needs to be removed. Pruning should be done late in the winter season, when the plant is not actively growing. The bare stems should be cut back to the main plant framework, being careful not to take too much tissue. This will encourage a healthy bush-like shape. No more than 20 to 25 percent of foliage should be removed when pruning, to avoid damaging the plant.