Ramonda myconi aka Pyrenean Violet

Ramonda myconi is a small evergreen perennial in the Gesneriaceae family. Its common names include Pyrenean violet and rosette mullein. It comes from the central and eastern Pyrenees to northeastern Spain. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Kew records it as a rock-growing plant from a temperate climate. The name Ramonda pyrenaica is a synonym for this species.

The plant forms a low clump of leaf rosettes. It reaches about 0.33 feet (0.1 metres) in height. Its spread ranges from 0.33 to 1.64 feet (0.1–0.5 metres). The RHS gives two to five years to reach full size. Broad, egg-shaped leaves have a hairy surface and dark green colour. They stay on the plant through winter. This low form suits places where taller plants would hide small details.

Flowers grow in clusters on stems that have no leaves. Each bloom measures about 0.08 feet (0.025 metres) across. Five rounded petals give the flowers their violet-blue colour. Yellow anthers stand out against the petals. The blooms rise above the rosettes, while the leaves form the base. The supplied species records do not state a flowering period. They also give no details about fruit, edible parts, or toxicity. These records therefore do not establish whether the plant is safe to eat.

Grow it in partial shade with moist soil that drains well. The RHS recommends humus-rich soil with a moderate level of fertility. Chalk, loam, and sand all appear among its suitable soil types. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline conditions. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H5. This covers winter lows of about −15 to −10°C. Both sheltered and exposed sites appear in its growing guidance. Good drainage remains important even where winter cold poses no problem.

Rock gardens, patio pots, and other containers suit this small plant. Set plants on their sides to help water leave the rosettes. Trapped moisture can cause rot during winter. The RHS otherwise reports few disease problems. Slugs and snails may still damage plants. No pruning is needed as part of routine care. Propagation options include seed and leaf cuttings rooted in early autumn.