Chamisso's Arnica (Arnica chamissonis)

Chamisso's Arnica

Arnica chamissonis

It blooms with sunny golden heads, a beacon in alpine meadows. Perennial flowering herb; common names: Chamisso's arnica, mountain arnica.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade in warm summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Cold-hardy to -30°C; prefers cool summer temperatures below 25°C to avoid heat stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of ovate, toothed leaves; stem leaves are opposite, lanceolate
  • Flower: Golden yellow composite flower heads (5–8 cm diameter) with ray and disc florets
  • Stem: Erect, hairy green stems with minimal branching
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare plants for dormancy

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drenching; avoid applying to foliage
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage extended blooming
  • Remove yellowing basal leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Cut back stems to ground level after flowering to promote healthy regrowth in the next season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy

Humans: Ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and skin irritation; internal use is not recommended due to potential organ damage

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Associated with topical pain relief in traditional herbal medicine; caution advised for internal use

Usage: Ornamental alpine garden plant; limited traditional medicinal use (topical only)