Yellow Whitlowgrass (Draba aizoides)

Yellow Whitlowgrass

Draba aizoides

Tiny yellow blooms carpet rocky slopes like sunlit confetti. Low-growing alpine perennial; common name: Yellow Whitlowgrass.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in cool, exposed rock garden conditions
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Watering Water moderately during active growth; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to sub-zero temperatures; withstands light spring frosts without damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosettes of narrow, linear to spatulate leaves covered in fine, silvery hairs; margins entire
  • Flower: Dense clusters of bright yellow, four-petaled flowers on slender stems
  • Stem: Short, delicate flowering stems emerging from the central basal rosette
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during flowering and active growth

Fertilization

Diluted, low-nitrogen feed once in early spring. Fertilizer is optional; excessive feeding may reduce flower production

Banana peel tea:Steep chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid pest issues
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems after blooming to maintain tidy growth
  • Thin overcrowded basal rosettes to improve air circulation
  • Trim yellowing or damaged basal leaves as needed
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA does not list this plant as toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Rock garden ornamental, alpine ground cover