Lepidium nanum, commonly known as Dwarf Pepperweed, is a compact, cushion-forming perennial native to the arid, high-elevation regions of the western United States, particularly the Great Basin and surrounding desert mountains. This hardy little plant thrives in harsh, dry environments, forming dense mats of small, silvery-green leaves and producing clusters of tiny white flowers in spring to early summer. Well-suited to rock gardens, alpine troughs, and dryland plantings.
Lepidium nanum prefers full sun and gritty, well-drained soil with minimal organic matter. It excels in limestone or alkaline conditions and requires little to no supplemental water once established, making it ideal for xeric designs and drought-tolerant gardens. Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, this resilient species adds fine texture and subtle beauty to crevice gardens and gravel beds, where its tidy form and silvery foliage contrast beautifully with bolder alpine plants. Minimal maintenance is needed beyond ensuring excellent drainage and avoiding excessive winter moisture.
Terrific cushion plant if one can achieve the almost impossible feat of avoiding excessive winter moisture in a NW winter. Probably much better if you have consistent snow cover!
Lepidium nanum, commonly known as Dwarf Pepperweed, is a compact, cushion-forming perennial native to the arid, high-elevation regions of the western United States, particularly the Great Basin and surrounding desert mountains. This hardy little plant thrives in harsh, dry environments, forming dense mats of small, silvery-green leaves and producing clusters of tiny white flowers in spring to early summer. Well-suited to rock gardens, alpine troughs, and dryland plantings.
Lepidium nanum prefers full sun and gritty, well-drained soil with minimal organic matter. It excels in limestone or alkaline conditions and requires little to no supplemental water once established, making it ideal for xeric designs and drought-tolerant gardens. Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, this resilient species adds fine texture and subtle beauty to crevice gardens and gravel beds, where its tidy form and silvery foliage contrast beautifully with bolder alpine plants. Minimal maintenance is needed beyond ensuring excellent drainage and avoiding excessive winter moisture.
Terrific cushion plant if one can achieve the almost impossible feat of avoiding excessive winter moisture in a NW winter. Probably much better if you have consistent snow cover!
