Yellow Vitaliana

Formerly known as Douglasia vitaliana, this charming alpine is a high-altitude gem that forms dense, prostrate mats of grey-green, moss-like foliage. Each shoot ends in a tiny rosette of narrow leaves. In late spring, the plant is often completely covered by sessile, bright lemon-yellow, primrose-like flowers that have a long tube. It is a slow-growing species that demands excellent drainage and a gritty, lean soil to replicate its mountainous home. In the UK, it is best grown in a scree bed, a trough, or an alpine house to protect it from excessive winter wetness, though it is temperature-hardy to at least -15°C. It prefers a position in full sun but appreciates some protection from the hottest afternoon sun in southern counties. It is a true specialist plant that provides a rewarding splash of gold for the dedicated alpine enthusiast.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Gritty, well-drained, neutral to acid soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.