Mountain Avens
Dryas octopetala
Mountain Avens is a hardy arctic-alpine evergreen shrub with distinctive eight-petaled white flowers. This resilient mat-forming plant thrives in harsh mountain environments and makes an excellent rock garden specimen.
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Late spring to early summer (May-July in Northern Hemisphere)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: pachypodiums and rockroses also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Mountain Avens is the national flower of Iceland, symbolizing the nation's rugged beauty and resilience. Two ice age periods are named after this plant—the "Older Dryas" (13,800 years ago) and "Younger Dryas" (11,500-12,800 years ago)—because Dryas fossils were prevalent during these cold periods. This connection to paleoclimatology makes the plant significant in climate change research. The genus name comes from Greek mythology's dryads (wood nymphs). Indigenous peoples used the tough leaf fibers to make fine twine and cordage.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright alpine conditions
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established; dislikes wet winter conditions
Soil
Well-drained, Rocky, Gravelly, Alkaline, Limestone-rich, Poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Excellent drainage is essential; plant in rocky or gravelly soil
Prefers alkaline to neutral soil (tolerates limestone)
Very hardy: zones 2-6; struggles in hot, humid climates
Propagate by softwood cuttings in summer or seed
Seed requires cold stratification for germination
Forms symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria (Frankia) in roots
Also forms mycorrhizal associations with soil fungi
Virtually pest and disease-free
Flowers track the sun across the sky (heliotropism) to attract pollinators
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and scree gardens
- Alpine garden plantings
- Ground cover on slopes
- Trough gardens and containers
- Wall gardens
- Border edges in cool climates
- Native plant gardens
- Green roof plantings
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Mountain Avens
is mountain avens hard to grow?
Mountain Avens is easy to grow in cool climates with excellent drainage and full sun. It struggles in hot, humid regions and requires rocky or gravelly soil. Once established in suitable conditions, it's very low maintenance.
why is it called mountain avens?
The name 'avens' comes from its placement in the rose family alongside true avens (Geum species). 'Mountain' refers to its natural alpine and arctic tundra habitat where it thrives at high elevations and harsh conditions.
how does mountain avens survive in harsh conditions?
Mountain Avens has multiple adaptations: low mat-forming growth protects it from wind, hairy leaf undersides conserve moisture, symbiotic bacteria fix nitrogen in poor soils, and mycorrhizal fungi help with nutrient uptake. Its flowers track the sun to maximize warmth for pollinators.
what is the younger dryas period?
The Younger Dryas (11,500-12,800 years ago) was a cold period during the last ice age named after Mountain Avens (Dryas octopetala) fossils that were abundant during this time. It's important in climate change research.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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