Alpine Squirreltail Plant Care

Alpine Squirreltail (Conopholis alpina) belongs to the Orobanchaceae family within the Conopholis genus. Alpine Squirreltail is also known as Pine-drops.

Alpine Squirreltail displays a low rosette, clumping growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 ft. Alpine Squirreltail produces small, inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Alpine Squirreltail every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Alpine Squirreltail thrives in partial to full shade. The optimal light range is 50–200 lux. Avoid placing Alpine Squirreltail in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Conopholis alpina tolerates temperatures of 50–75°F. Alpine Squirreltail prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with high organic matter content. Good drainage is essential for Alpine Squirreltail to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Choose a spot with partial to full shade and well-draining, slightly acidic soil with high organic matter content. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Alpine Squirreltail is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Alpine Squirreltail can spread to about 1 ft (0.2 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 1 ft (0.2 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Alpine Squirreltail while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Alpine Squirreltail is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Alpine Squirreltail can be propagated through seeds.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Alpine Squirreltail is susceptible to not commonly affected by pests. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Alpine Squirreltail grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow Alpine Squirreltail as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.