Overview
Dodecatheon alpinum is a clump forming alpine rockery in the genus Dodecatheon, part of the Primulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Dodecatheon alpinum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, rock garden and underplanting of roses and shrubs.
About
Primula tetrandra, synonyms Dodecatheon tetrandrum and Dodecatheon alpinum, is a perennial plant in the primrose family, Primulaceae, known by the common name alpine shooting star. This wildflower is native to the Western United States, in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington. The plant grows in wet areas in the mountains, such as in the Sierra Nevada and Transverse Ranges. In the garden it prefers full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, rock garden and underplanting of roses and shrubs. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Primula tetrandra
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dodecatheon
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Dodecatheon alpinum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Alpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dodecatheon alpinum
- Propagation
- Seed, Division in spring
- Pest resistance
- Slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dodecatheon alpinum?
Dodecatheon alpinum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dodecatheon alpinum need?
Dodecatheon alpinum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Dodecatheon alpinum hardy in the UK?
Dodecatheon alpinum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Dodecatheon alpinum?
Seed, Division in spring.
