Eritrichium nanum, the arctic alpine forget-me-not or king-of-the-Alps, is a circumpolar alpine cushion plant which occurs in the North American Rocky mountains as well as the European Alps. It grows at elevations of 10,000 feet in an environment of acid rocks, snow gullies and receding glaciers.
King of the alps is fairly disease-resistant and typically does not suffer from illnesses. Nevertheless, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. Such infections are generally mild. For care, this plant needs moderate maintenance. Regular pruning is required to keep a good appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage flowering. King of the alps is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, like a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Eritrichium Nanum.
Light
King of the alps is a sun-loving, perennial herbaceous plant native to open habitats, commonly found in meadows and grasslands. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial sunlight.
Water
The King of the Alps thrives in rocky alpine terrains with moderate moisture. To mimic its natural habitat, it requires weekly watering. It is best grown outdoors, where it can take advantage of natural temperature and soil moisture fluctuations that reflect its high-altitude origins. This hardy perennial adapts well to outdoor cultivation.
Fertilizer
The primary time to feed King of the alps is in early spring when the flowers are beginning to form. Using the appropriate fertilizer promotes better blooms and helps King of the alps produce attractive flowers. Fertilizing in early spring ensures strong flowers during the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.
Pruning
To maintain the health and beauty of the King of the Alps, prune in early spring to remove dead stems and again in late spring to encourage denser growth and vibrant blooms. Always use clean, sharp tools to promote the plant's well-being. Regular pruning helps maintain the desired shape and enhances prolific flowering. For the best results, consult local gardening guides.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Eritrichium
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 3-7
- Mature Height
- 5 cm to 8 cm
- Mature Spread
- 8 cm to 10 cm
- Leaf Color
- Steel Blue, Slate Gray
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Blue
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
Other names.
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for Eritrichium nanum, also known as King of the Alps?
Eritrichium nanum, also known as King of the Alps, thrives in various sunlight conditions. For 'Full sun,' it requires above 6 hours of sunlight per day, ensuring that the plants get abundant light for optimal growth. In cases of 'Partial sun,' about 3-6 hours of sunlight per day is ideal, accommodating garden spots that receive less direct sunlight. It's important to observe how sunlight moves throughout your garden, selecting locations that offer a harmonious balance of light and shade. This careful consideration guarantees the plants' well-being, allowing them to flourish in their environment.
