Blossom of snow: A starry symbol of the Alps makes an unusual addition to rock gardens
Summary
Edelweiss is a rare white flower that grows naturally in the Alps. It has strict growing needs, such as rocky, alkaline soil, full sun, and cold winters, but people can grow it safely in rock gardens in certain regions.Key Facts
- Edelweiss is known as “noble white” in German and grows wild in the Alps.
- Young men historically risked their lives to pick edelweiss as a gift, with at least one recorded death from falling.
- The flower needs well-drained, rocky or sandy soil that is low in nutrients.
- It requires full sunlight and cold winter temperatures to grow well.
- Gardeners in climate zones 4-7 with low humidity can try to grow edelweiss successfully.
- Seeds need a cold period (stratification) before they will sprout, either outdoors in late fall or pre-chilled indoors.
- Starter plants can be planted after the last frost and bloom in their first year.
- Once established, the plants need little watering and survive down to -20°F (-29°C).
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