Cerastium alpinum aka Alpine Mouse Ear
Taxonomy ID: 5650
Cerastium alpinum, also known as alpine mouse-ear or alpine chickweed, is a mat-forming perennial plant native to Greenland, Canada, and northern Europe. This species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, and there are three subspecies. One subspecies, Cerastium alpinum var. lanatum, is a slow-growing alpine plant that forms a low carpet or cushion of fuzzy silver-grey leaves. Short stems of starry white flowers appear in late spring and early summer, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, gravel scree, or alpine trough gardens. It is important to note that Alpine Mouse-Ear is a super rare houseplant that requires regular watering and direct light from a window less than one foot away. This plant prefers well-draining soil and should not need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. The small white flowers and silver-haired stems and foliage make it a beautiful addition to any garden or indoor space.
Common names
Alpine Mouse Ear, Alpine Mouse Ear Chickweed, Alpine ChickweedMore information about Alpine Mouse Ear
How difficult is it to take care of Alpine Mouse Ear
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Alpine Mouse Ear is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the growth pattern and size of Alpine Mouse Ear?
New growth will sprout from the top of the Alpine Mouse Ear as it grows vertically.
What are the water needs for Alpine Mouse Ear
Alpine Mouse Ear should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Alpine Mouse Ear
Alpine Mouse Ear loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Alpine Mouse Ear
Alpine Mouse Ear requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Alpine Mouse Ear Chickweed is always in the right place to thrive.
How to fertilize Alpine Mouse Ear
Repotting the Alpine Mouse Ear should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Alpine Mouse Ear toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
What seasonal care does Alpine Mouse Ear need?
During the cold period, it is common for Alpine Mouse Ear to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Cerastium Genus
Cerastium beeringianum Bering Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium velutinum Large Field Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium Chickweed
Cerastium davuricum Cerastium Davuricum
Cerastium semidecandrum Five Stamen Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium alpinum Alpine Mouse Ear
Cerastium biebersteinii Snow In Summer
Cerastium glomeratum Mouse Ear Chickweed
Cerastium pumilum Dwarf Mouse Ear
