Leontopodium Alpinum, commonly known as Edelweiss, is a herbaceous perennial native to the mountains of Europe. It is the traditional symbol of the Alps and unofficial national flower of Switzerland. The plant prefers rocky limestone places at about 1800?3000 m altitude, raised beds or alpine house and can adapt to climatic extremes. Edelweiss is cold hardy (at least -29 degrees Celsius). The top of the plant will die in the winter when the crown below will stay alive to sprout in the spring. Edelweiss has a matt, grey-green foliage and white ?Starfish shaped? felted bracts which can be up to 10cm (4in) across. The real flowers are tiny and pale yellow, tucked away in the centre of the shaggy daisy-like heads. They flower from the end of July to mid-August, during optimal weather conditions. The plant is drought-tolerant once established. Leontopodium alpinum is generally short lived; 2-7 years. Collection is now regulated or banned in many European countries due to its decline from its collection in the past. Grow in well-drained soil. The soil should be neutral to alkaline. Grow in a sheltered position in full sun. Hardiness zone 4-7