Origin
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Primulaceae. It is native to the high-elevation mountains of western North America, particularly in the western regions of Canada and the United States.
Common Names
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is commonly known as Northern rock-jasmine, Arctic rock-jasmine, or Umbellate rock-jasmine.
Uses
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its delicate yet vibrant appearance. It is often planted in rock gardens, on walls, and in alpine troughs - container gardens that simulate the conditions of mountain environments. It is also believed to have medicinal properties, and is used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments including sore throats, indigestion, and arthritis.
General Appearance
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is a small herbaceous perennial that grows up to 5 cm tall and 10 cm wide. The leaves are basal, forming a rosette at the base of the plant. They are ovate or elliptic in shape, and have a glossy, dark-green color. The flowers are pink or white, and are held in umbels on short stems above the leaves. They are typically 5-10 mm in diameter, with five petals that are notched at the tip.
Growth Conditions for Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is a plant that grows naturally in alpine environments. It requires specific growth conditions to thrive, including:
Light
The growth of Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is influenced by the amount of light it receives. This plant typically grows in regions with high levels of sunlight but is also capable of growing in partial shade. As a result, it is recommended to plant this species in areas exposed to moderate to high levels of light to promote healthy growth.
Temperature
The growth of Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is heavily influenced by temperature. It is a plant that thrives in cold climates and is often found in altitudes above 3000 meters. This plant is frost-resistant and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C. It requires a cold environment to germinate and establish properly.
Soil Requirements
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. This plant does not tolerate wet soils, so the soil must be well-drained to promote healthy growth. In addition, it requires a rocky or sandy substrate to support its roots better.
Overall, Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is a unique plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. It requires moderate to high levels of light, cold temperatures, and well-drained nutrient-rich soils to promote healthy growth and establishment.
Cultivation Methods
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins requires a well-draining and aerated soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can be grown in pots or in the ground. The plant can be propagated by seed or by division of clumps in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged as the plant can be susceptible to root rot. It is important to avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins requires a low to moderate amount of fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause excessive growth and reduce flower production.
Pruning
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins does not require pruning except for the removal of dead or damaged leaves and flowers. This can be done throughout the growing season. At the end of the growing season, the plant can be cut back to the ground to promote new growth the following season.
Propagation of Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (A. Nels.) G.T. Robbins
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata (commonly known as Northern rock-jasmine) is a low-growing plant that produces attractive white or pink flowers. This plant is commonly propagated through seed or division.
Propagation through Seed
Propagation of Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata through seed can be done indoors or outdoors. Sow the seeds in the late fall or spring, in a well-draining and moist soil mix. Barely cover the seeds with soil and ensure that the soil is kept moist until germination.
Seedlings will start to appear in a few weeks, and once they develop two or three true leaves they can be transplanted into their own pots or directly into a garden bed. Seed-grown plants may take longer to bloom compared to those propagated through division, but they tend to be more robust.
Propagation through Division
Propagation of Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata through division is the easiest and quickest method. This method can be done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing or flowering. Divide the plant by carefully digging around the rootball and separating the different sections of the plant, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy stem and root system. Transplant them into containers or directly into the garden bed.
To ensure the success of the divisions, it is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer and keep the soil moist until they become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata
Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata, also known as Northern androsace, is a small, low-growing herbaceous perennial plant that is susceptible to a few common diseases and pests. Here are some disease and pest management tips to help keep your Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white or gray, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It is caused by high humidity levels and poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts immediately and destroy them. You can also use a fungicidal spray to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is root rot. This disease is caused by waterlogged soil and poor drainage. The roots will appear brown and mushy. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. You can also use a fungicidal drench to help control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
One common pest that can affect Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is aphids. These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage this pest, you can use a strong blast of water to knock the aphids off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap to control their numbers.
Another pest that can affect Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata is spider mites. These tiny pests are difficult to see with the naked eye, but they cause severe damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. To manage this pest, you can use a miticidal spray or insecticidal soap.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help keep your Androsace septentrionalis L. ssp. subumbellata healthy and beautiful.
