Soldanella alpina aka Alpine Snowbell

Soldanella alpina is a small evergreen perennial in the primrose family, Primulaceae. Gardeners also know it as alpine snowbell or alpine soldanella. Other names include blue moonwort and jewel of the Alps. Its native range runs from the central Pyrenees to southwest Germany and the western Balkans. It grows in subalpine or subarctic climates. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This plant forms a small clump with rounded, leathery leaves. The leaves stay green through the year. In gardens, it reaches about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] in height. Its spread also reaches about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres]. The RHS gives two to five years for plants to reach full size. Its small scale suits rock gardens and pots on patios. The evergreen leaves give it a presence beyond the flowering season.

Flowers appear in early spring, above the low clump of leaves. They nod downward and grow in groups called umbels. Their colour ranges from purple to violet. Each flower measures about 0.05 feet [0.015 metres] long. These spring flowers and year-round leaves are its main garden features. The RHS lists both rock gardens and containers as suitable planting choices. It also recommends an alpine house as a place to grow it.

Give this plant humus-rich soil that holds moisture but drains well. The RHS lists loam and sand as suitable soil types. It accepts acid or neutral soil. Grow it in sun, with shade during the middle of the day. The plant profile also lists partial shade as suitable. Protect it from too much winter wet. Good drainage matters even though the plant needs moist soil. The RHS rates its hardiness as H6 under UK conditions. This rating covers winter lows of about −20 to −15°C.

Routine care does not call for pruning. Gardeners can raise new plants from seed or softwood cuttings. The RHS reports few disease problems, though aphids may attack it. Its tolerance of cold does not remove the need for winter drainage. Choose a site that meets both needs. The supplied sources give no details on edible parts or toxicity. They also provide no fruit description or documented medicinal use.