Overview

Dodecatheon frigidum is a clump forming alpine rockery in the genus Dodecatheon, part of the Primulaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Dodecatheon frigidum 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 frigida, synonym Dodecatheon frigidum, commonly called the western arctic shootingstar, is a plant species found in arctic and subarctic regions in the northwestern part of North America and in Asiatic Russia. In the wild it grows across North America, NO and Norway. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for 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 4.0Primula frigida

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 frigidum 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 frigidum

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 frigidum?

Dodecatheon frigidum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Dodecatheon frigidum need?

Dodecatheon frigidum 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 frigidum hardy in the UK?

Dodecatheon frigidum 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 frigidum?

Seed, Division in spring.

More in the Dodecatheon genus

Browse all Dodecatheon