Calceolaria biflora ‘Goldcap’

Native to Chile and Argentina, this surprisingly hardy little alpine plant is unforgettable. It forms a low, ground-hugging rosette of hairy leaves, with wiry stems rising above in late spring, each bearing a pair of inflated golden-yellow pouch flowers marked with tiny red spots. Appreciates an evenly moist but well-drained soil, particularly good in a shady rock garden. Also worth trying in alpine trough gardens or gravel screes. Protect from hot afternoon sun. Although rated to Zone 5 this has been known to winter as cold as Zone 2 with reliable snow cover.