Botanical name:

Leucogenes grandiceps

Common name(s):

South Island edelweiss

About:

This particular plant is an alpine species found predominantly on the South Island and Stewart Island of New Zealand. It develops into a low, sprawling form characterised by its densely felted foliage, which resembles that of L. leontopodium. However, it is important to note that this plant features smaller leaves and shorter stems than its counterpart. As a result of its unique growing conditions, it is considered a challenging plant to cultivate, necessitating the dedicated care and attention of an enthusiastic alpine gardener.

Natural habitat:

Subalpine to alpine. On rock outcrops, cliff faces, boulders within moraines, fell field and other rock strewn ground, either in the open, amongst cushion plants or in light scrub.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand: South and Stewart Islands

Height: 10cm

Flowering: 

November – March with a white – yellow coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

January - April

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Container’s & Aline gardens

How to grow:

Easily grown from cuttings and fresh seed. Excellent in a pot within an alpine house, and in non-humid climates can be grown in rock gardens. Provided the root stock is kept cool can be grown in most lowland situations.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though