Species Alpine Mouse Ear Chickweed

white flowers with yellow center, green leaves and lime stems

Alpine Mouse Ear Chickweed

Cerastium alpinum

Also Known As - Alpine Chickweed

Alpine mouse ear chickweed (Cerastium alpinum) is a small, herbaceous plant that grows best in rocky alpine regions. It has tiny white flowers that form delicate clusters in the spring. Its cushion-like basal leaves are densely arranged in a rosette, and its stems are covered with fine white hairs. It is highly grows in sandy and clay soils, and can tolerate drought and cold temperatures. This spreading perennial is ideal for rock gardens, and provides rich green color in the shade. Its small, quick-growing nature is a blessing to the alpine environment, as it helps to stabilize sandy soils and prevent erosion.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Yellow Swanseed (Cephalaria alpina) deeply every 5-7 days. Watering should take place in the morning, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy for the entire week. During hot summer months, daily watering may be necessary. During cooler winter months, shorten the time between waterings.

sunlight

Yellow Swanseed (Cephalaria alpina) prefers sunny and well-draining areas and grows best with 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. For optimal growth, place the plant in a spot that receives full sun in the morning and filtered shade in the afternoon. The plant should be protected from the hottest midday sun to prevent leaf scorching. If the plant does not receive enough sunlight, it may not flower or may look pale and sickly. In temperate and cooler climates, the plant can be grown in partial shade but may need more sunlight during the winter months.

pruning

For Yellow Swanseed, pruning should be done in the early spring before the plant begins to become active. Pruning should be done lightly as this species has a tendency to form a dense clump. Remove any dead leaves, dead stems, seed heads, and any other dead foliage. Also, work with the plant to create a more desirable shape by removing any stray stems or clusters. Generally, a light pruning of the ends of the stems is sufficient enough to keep the plant looking full and promote strong growth.

Propagation