From the wind-scoured summits of the Wallowa Mountains, Silene acaulis forms some of the most exquisite cushions in the alpine flora, dense as stone and enduring beyond expectation. Its minute, tightly packed leaves create hard, hummock-like domes that press low against the rock, an adaptation to relentless exposure to buffeting winds and cold. In early summer, these austere mounds are suddenly enlivened by a scattering of vivid rose-pink flowers, each one held just above the surface like a jewel set into the cushion. In the rock garden, it demands sharp drainage, full sun, and a cool root run, thriving in crevices or troughs where moisture is fleeting and competition absent.
This collection is from the wonderful alpine fell fields below the Summit of Aneroid mountain in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountain range. Broader and more sprawling then some of the other selections this one has a good vigorous habitat, sure to fill a crevice garden slot, or rock garden niche in no time.
From the wind-scoured summits of the Wallowa Mountains, Silene acaulis forms some of the most exquisite cushions in the alpine flora, dense as stone and enduring beyond expectation. Its minute, tightly packed leaves create hard, hummock-like domes that press low against the rock, an adaptation to relentless exposure to buffeting winds and cold. In early summer, these austere mounds are suddenly enlivened by a scattering of vivid rose-pink flowers, each one held just above the surface like a jewel set into the cushion. In the rock garden, it demands sharp drainage, full sun, and a cool root run, thriving in crevices or troughs where moisture is fleeting and competition absent.
This collection is from the wonderful alpine fell fields below the Summit of Aneroid mountain in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountain range. Broader and more sprawling then some of the other selections this one has a good vigorous habitat, sure to fill a crevice garden slot, or rock garden niche in no time.
