PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect sunlight; tolerates partial shade at high altitudes; avoid hot midday sun in lowland cultivation
Watering
Water when the top 2 cm of soil dries completely; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot in cool, damp conditions
Temperature
Tolerates light frost down to -5℃; thrives in cool, consistent temperatures between 5–18℃
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of oblong, densely woolly gray-green leaves with smooth margins
- Flower: Large, fragrant white to pale pink composite flower head wrapped in papery, pale green bracts
- Stem: Short, woolly central stem supporting a single terminal flower
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 6 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flower production rather than foliage growth
Crushed eggshell powder topdressing：Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of finely crushed eggshell powder on the soil surface; avoid direct contact with leaves to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove spent flower heads immediately after blooming to redirect energy to root growth
- Trim yellowing or damaged basal leaves in early spring to maintain rosette health
- Thin overcrowded rosettes every 2–3 years to improve airflow and reduce competition for nutrients
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Sacred in Hinduism; believed to bloom only once a year under moonlight, associated with Lord Brahma
Usage: Ornamental alpine garden plant; used in traditional Himalayan medicine for respiratory and digestive ailments
