Rock Jasmine (Androsace adfinis)

Rock Jasmine

Androsace adfinis

Tiny star-shaped blooms cluster like scattered stardust on alpine rocks. Low-growing alpine perennial; common name: Rock Jasmine.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the growing medium to fully dry out
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Temperature Thrives in cool temperatures; tolerates light frost, avoid prolonged heat above 22°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Forms tight, dense rosettes of small, oval, fuzzy green leaves
  • Flower: Tiny 5-petaled star-shaped blooms in white or pale pink, clustered above rosettes
  • Stem: Short, delicate, hairless stems supporting flower clusters
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Horticulturist's Insider Field Notes (No AI Fluff)

The Golden 'Finger Test' Rule

Never water on a strict calendar. Stick your index finger 2 inches into the soil. If it feels cool and damp, wait 2–3 days. If bone dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom holes.

Empty the Saucer After 20 Minutes

The #1 houseplant killer is water sitting in the catch tray. Stagnant runoff water starves roots of oxygen and causes root rot.

Turn the Pot Every 2 Weeks

Houseplants naturally lean toward the nearest window light. Give the pot a quarter-turn biweekly to maintain balanced, symmetrical architecture.

Wipe the Dust Away

Dust on leaves acts like a heavy sunshade. Gently wipe broad foliage with a damp cloth monthly to maximize photosynthesis and air purification.

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Care Guide

Watering

Keep growing medium evenly moist; mist lightly to maintain ambient humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent leggy growth

Banana peel tea:Soak 2-3 chopped banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days; strain and dilute 1:20 before applying as a root drench
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage extended blooming
  • Thin overcrowded rosettes in early spring to improve airflow
  • Trim dead or yellowing foliage to maintain a tidy mat form
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Pet & Human Toxicity & Emergency Guide

⚠️ Toxic to Pets (Cats & Dogs)

Toxicity Warning: Veterinary toxicology registers Rock Jasmine (Androsace adfinis) as possessing biochemical compounds (such as insoluble oxalates, alkaloids, or saponins) that pose ingestion hazards to felines and canines.

Feline Ingestion Risks (Cats)

Oral pain, hypersalivation (excessive drooling), pawing at mouth, swelling of tongue or lips, vocalization, and vomiting.

Canine Ingestion Risks (Dogs)

Oral mucosal irritation, gagging, retching, lack of appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, and difficulty swallowing.

Immediate Emergency First-Aid

Do NOT induce vomiting without veterinary instructions! Carefully remove remaining plant pieces, gently rinse mouth with cool water, and monitor breathing.

🚨 Pet Ingestion Emergency? Instant Plant & Toxicity Scan

Chewed leaf or stem? Open PlantFun App to scan the plant, immediately verify the botanical species, and view ASPCA toxicity severity ratings & vet first-aid advice.

Emergency Plant Scan
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Troubleshooting & Common Plant Problems

Quick diagnostic guide for common care issues affecting Rock Jasmine (Androsace adfinis):

Yellowing Leaves

Most commonly caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure topsoil dries out between waterings and check for root ventilation.

Brown or Crispy Leaf Tips

Low ambient humidity, hard tap water minerals, or direct midday sunburn. Increase humidity and use filtered water.

Drooping or Wilting Foliage

Indicates dehydration or root damage from prolonged waterlogging. Inspect soil moisture and root firmness.

Common Pests (Spider Mites, Aphids)

Dry indoor air encourages pests. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

🌿 Instant AI Plant Health Check

Take a photo of any leaf on PlantFun App to get instant diagnosis of diseases, pests, and custom care recovery steps.

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Propagation & Repotting Guide

  • Taking Cuttings: During active spring or summer growth, take a healthy 4–6 inch cutting just below a node using clean shears.
  • Rooting Medium: Place cuttings in fresh water or moist perlite mix in bright, indirect light; refresh water weekly.
  • Potting Up: Transplant into well-draining potting mix once roots reach 2 inches in length (typically 3–5 weeks).
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Seasonal Care Calendar

  • Spring & Summer (Active Growth): Water thoroughly as topsoil dries; apply diluted balanced fertilizer monthly; encourage steady growth.
  • Autumn (Transition): Gradually reduce watering frequency as daylight hours shorten; discontinue fertilization.
  • Winter (Dormancy): Water sparingly only when soil is mostly dry; protect from cold window drafts; keep in warm room.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my Rock Jasmine?

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. In active growth (spring/summer), water every 1–2 weeks; reduce significantly in winter.

Where is the best indoor location for Rock Jasmine?

Position in bright, filtered indirect light (e.g., near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains). Avoid harsh direct midday sun.

Is Rock Jasmine toxic to pets?

ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

When should I repot my Rock Jasmine?

Repot every 1–2 years in spring when roots outgrow the drainage holes or the soil depletes nutrients.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden and alpine trough plant; used for ground cover in well-drained sites

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