Scamman's Claytonia, Scamman's springbeauty
Claytonia scammaniana
Family: Portulacaceae
What it is like
Claytonia scammaniana is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Moist grassy places in Alaska. Talus and scree slopes on serpentine at elevations of 50 - 2000 metres.
Northwestern N. America - Alaska to Northern Europe and Northern Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Leaves - raw or cooked. Flowers - raw.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. This plant is considered to be a part of C. sarmentosa by some botanists. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a damp peaty soil and a position in full sun. Requires a lime-free soil.
Propagating it: Seed - surface sow on a peat based compost in spring in a cold frame. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 4 weeks at 10°c. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the cold frame for at least their first winter. Plant them out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts. Division of offsets in spring or autumn.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist