Androsace villosa aka Woolly Rock Jasmine

Androsace villosa is a small evergreen perennial in the Primulaceae family. It comes from mountain regions of Europe and Asia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Common names include shaggy rock jasmine and wooly rock jasmine. The RHS also lists Androsace olympica as a synonym. Its low growth forms a mat or a compact cushion.

Plants reach about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] in height. Their spread ranges from 0.33–1.64 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. The RHS gives two to five years to reach full size. Small leaves grow in rosettes and stay green year-round. Long, silk-like hairs cover the leaf undersides. The low cushion and hairy leaves provide interest beyond the flowering season. Its spread can be much greater than its height.

White flowers appear in spring, held just above the leaves. Chicago Botanic Garden lists March to April as the flowering period. Each close-set cluster holds three to seven blooms. The flowers have yellow centres, which may turn red with age. Flower stems measure about 0.07–0.10 feet [0.02–0.03 metres] long. These short stems keep the blooms close to the leafy cushion. The flowers add spring colour to small planting spaces.

Grow this species in full sun with good soil drainage. The RHS lists chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. It accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Keep the soil moist while allowing excess water to drain. A gritty mix suits its use in rock gardens. Wall crevices, scree beds and troughs are other suggested sites. It also suits gravel gardens, patio containers, beds and borders. Both exposed and sheltered sites are suitable. South-facing and west-facing positions match the RHS guidance. The RHS rates it H5; Chicago lists USDA zones 5–9.

This plant needs no pruning and generally has few pest problems. Wet conditions can lead to fungal disease, so drainage matters. Raise new plants from seed or use single rosettes as cuttings. Take these cuttings in early to mid-summer. Water them from below to keep their leaves dry. Its small size makes it suited to close viewing in troughs. In a rock garden, its low form fits gaps between stones.