PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers cool, indirect alpine sunlight and avoids intense midday heat at low elevations
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot in cool, damp conditions
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; tolerates cool summer temperatures, avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of ovate, fuzzy leaves; stem leaves are smaller, opposite, lanceolate
- Flower: Daisy-like composite heads with golden yellow ray florets and central disc florets
- Stem: Erect, hairy stems with few branching points
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bloom production without excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, oven-dried eggshells around the plant base; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent fungal issuesPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage secondary flowering and redirect energy to root growth
- Cut back flowering stems to the basal rosette after the blooming season to promote healthy regrowth
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, and oral irritation
Humans: Contains helenalin; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and dizziness; topical use may trigger skin irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Used in regulated topical herbal medicine; symbolizes protection in alpine folklore
Usage: Ornamental alpine garden plant; limited medicinal use for topical pain relief (under professional guidance)
