Alpine plants originate in mountainous areas of the world – hence not only in the Alps, although they are named after them, these plants have adapted to the extreme conditions in the regions of origin and are usually characterized by the slow growth rate, long life span, and cushion growth.
‘Alpine plants’ as a general term refers to a variety of plants, usual perennials with low and spreading growth, which can be found in forests, beaches, and cliffs by the sea, where they overcome extreme conditions such as cold, dryness, and high salinity.
Alpine gardening mimics the natural conditions in which plants grow using large stones, rocks, and gravel beds.
There are many advantages to alpine gardening, the plants are compact and also suitable for small gardens, require minimal maintenance throughout the year and are very economical in water, aesthetic, and have a beautiful and lush bloom in a variety of colors and shapes.
Established in the world botanical gardens specializing in alpine gardening, the world-famous are the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Scotland; Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, Colorado, USA.
The following photos were taken in the world’s largest alpine garden, the Davies Alpine House, Kew Gardens located in the UK.
