Silky Draba

Draba mollissima is arguably the most beautiful and prized of the cushion-forming Drabas. Native to the Caucasus, it forms a perfectly spherical, incredibly dense dome of tiny, silver-grey rosettes, each covered in soft, silky hairs. The texture is almost woolly. In spring, this silver cushion is dotted with numerous small, four-petalled, bright yellow flowers held on very short stems. In the UK, this is very much a plant for the specialist alpine house or a very well-protected trough, as the hairy foliage acts like a sponge for winter moisture, leading to rapid rot. It requires perfect drainage and excellent air circulation. The potting medium should be almost entirely mineral-based. Despite its delicate appearance and need for specific care, it is fully hardy (H4) regarding temperature. For those who enjoy the challenge of growing high-alpine 'cushions', D. mollissima is a quintessential choice that provides year-round architectural beauty and a brilliant spring display. Growing it under a glass pane in winter is often necessary.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Very gritty, mineral-based soil (scree).

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Aprbase, May.