Species Alpine Chickweed
white flower with yellow-white stamens, white-olive buds, olive-green leaves and stems

Alpine Chickweed

Cerastium alpinum subsp. lanatum

Alpine chickweed is a species of small, white-flowered plant native to mountainous regions of Europe. Growing to a height of up to 45 cm, its narrow, dark green leaves are hairy on the upper surface. Blossoming from May to June, it bears masses of tiny, cup-shaped white flowers, usually with four petals. Prefers cool, moist soil in full sun or partial shade, and often grows in alpine meadows and high mountain pastures. It is considered a weed in some countries, and can be invasive if allowed to spread.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Stem Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Alpine Chickweed (Cerastium alpinum subsp. lanatum) prefers moist tissue and adequate but not excessive watering. Watering should take place at least once a week to ensure that the soil remains consistently moist but not overly saturated. A good rule of thumb is to water until the top 2-3 inches of soil feels slightly damp. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other health issues for the plant. Additionally, if the soil begins to dry out, feel free to water more often.

sunlight

Alpine Chickweed (Cerastium alpinum subsp. lanatum) is a species of plant native to cold mountainous regions around the world, such as the Alps. It requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering, so it should be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. However, too much direct sun during hot summer months can damage the plant, so some shade from midday sun is recommended. In addition, Alpine Chickweed is not drought tolerant and requires adequate moisture, so proper irrigation should be provided during extended periods of dry weather.

pruning

Alpine Chickweed (Cerastium alpinum subsp. lanatum) should be pruned in mid to late spring, after blooming, to keep it from becoming leggy and unruly. Pruning should be done to encourage new growth and to maintain their desired size and shape. To prune Alpine Chickweed, cut back the stems that covered in flowers to about 2-3 inches in height. This will allow the plant to regrow and bloom again. In addition, deadhead as needed to encourage healthy and vigorous growth. Be sure to leave some stems so that the plant stays full and bushy. Prune off any plant material that is yellowing, browning, or dead and remove any stems that are growing too wide to maintain the desired look of the plant.