Plant of the Month for May 2013

Draba polytricha

Description and general information

Draba polytricha is a low (5 cm) bun-forming alpine with tiny rosettes of fuzzy, grey-green foliage and numerous thin stems topped with small clusters of yellow flowers. This species is native to the alpine regions of Turkey. It is considered hardy from zones 5 through 7.

Draba polytricha; photo by Todd Boland

Cultivation

This species requires sharp drainage, especially in winter. It perfomrs best under alpine house conditions. It requires full sun and appreciates alkaline soil.
 

Bloom period

Winter-spring, from February in the south to May in the north.
 

Propagation

Seed
 

Seed

Ontario Rock Garden Society states to sow their seeds at 20 C for 3 months followed by 4 C for another 3 months. Personal experience achieved germination by simply stratifying seeds for 8 weeks at 2-4 C.
 

Division

Plant is tap-rooted so division is not practiced.
 

Cuttings

Not generally practiced as the rosettes are essentially stemless.
 

References

www.onrockgarden.com/germination-guide/draba-polytricha

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