Alpines

Alpines Overview

Alpine is a term applied to a wide range of plants that grow at high altitudes in extreme conditions. They are typically found above the tree line and include a variety of different families and genera. Tundra is a term applied to the environment in which Alpine Plants live, this encompasses mountainous regions at high elevations and lacks tree life. These plants are adapted to survive in harsh environments that experience short growing seasons, low temperatures, a lack of available water, unyielding winds, poor soil and strong sunlight. Alpines are resilient and relatively easy to grow, most are tolerant to drought once established and require infrequent watering - perfect for the forgetful gardener! Alpine Plants can be herbaceous or woody, grasses, sedges, mosses, or lichens, most are perennial, coming back every year and these plants are usually hardy, coping well with freezing temperatures and low-growing in their habit. They may be evergreen or deciduous, Alpine gardening can also include trees. Alpine Plants are usually linked with rock garden plants, these can be smaller forms of certain herbaceous plants or shrubs, a good choice for those with limited space. These plants typically flower early in the year, in spring and often again in autumn. Some do better in full, direct sunshine and others prefer bright, indirect light in partially or fully shaded conditions. All grow best in really well-draining soil. Most don't like to be too wet over winter, so plenty of drainage is kety to growing Alpines. Some popular genera are Armeria, Dianthus, Lewisia, Lithodora, Phlox, Saxifraga, Sedum and Sempervivum. You can find out more in-depth care information for many species and cultivars on their individual plant profiles.

How to propagate Alpines

Seed

Division

Cuttings

Special features of Alpines

Attractive leaves

Attractive flowers

Drought resistant

Ground cover

Pot plant