Common Name: Edelweiss
Genus: Leontopodium
Species: alpinum
Cultivar: 'Mignon'
Skill Level: Experienced
Exposure: Full sun
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Chalky/alkaline, Dry
Height: 15cm
Spread: 20cm
Time to divide plants: March to April
Edelweiss is much loved as the traditional symbol of the Alps. The matt, grey-green foliage makes the perfect backdrop for the remarkable white felted bracts which can be up to 10cm (4in) across. The real flowers are tiny and pale yellow, tucked away in the centre of the shaggy daisy-like heads. In a very well-drained, gritty soil in full sun, edelweiss survives for a few years but is never long-lived. Mature plants can be divided carefully in spring, or raised from seed sown in gritty compost in a cold frame.
Looks good with:
Campanula glomerata 'Purple Pixie'BBC © 2014 The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.
This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.