Roald’s Locoweed: A Hardy Arctic Native for Specialized Gardens
If you’re looking for a tough-as-nails perennial that laughs in the face of brutal winters, let me introduce you to Roald’s locoweed (Oxytropis campestris var. roaldii). This plucky little native might not be your typical garden center find, but for the right gardener in the right conditions, it’s a fascinating addition to specialized plantings.
What Is Roald’s Locoweed?
Roald’s locoweed is a perennial forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant that comes back year after year. Don’t let the locoweed name scare you off; this is simply a traditional common name for plants in the Oxytropis genus. This particular variety is named after Norwegian botanist Roald Amundsen, adding a touch of polar exploration history to your garden!
You might also see this plant listed under its synonyms: Oxytropis campestris ssp. roaldii or simply Oxytropis roaldii. Whatever you call it, you’re dealing with one seriously cold-hardy plant.
Where Does It Come From?
This arctic beauty is native to some of the coldest places in North America, including Alaska, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. It’s perfectly adapted to harsh northern climates where many other plants simply can’t survive.
What Does It Look Like?
Roald’s locoweed produces clusters of small, purple to violet flowers arranged in dense, upright spikes. The foliage is typically silvery-green and covered in fine hairs—a clever adaptation that helps protect the plant from harsh winds and extreme temperatures. The overall effect is both delicate and rugged, much like the landscapes where it naturally thrives.
Should You Grow Roald’s Locoweed?
Here’s the honest truth: this isn’t a plant for everyone or every garden. But if you fall into certain categories, it might be perfect for you:
- You live in USDA zones 1-4 and struggle to find plants that truly thrive in your harsh climate
- You’re passionate about native plants and want to grow species indigenous to northern North America
- You have a rock garden or alpine garden where this low-growing beauty can shine
- You want to support arctic pollinators like native bees that have co-evolved with this plant
- You appreciate unique, conversation-starter plants with fascinating backstories
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re still reading, you’re probably wondering how to keep this arctic native happy. The good news is that once established, Roald’s locoweed is remarkably low-maintenance—if you can meet its basic needs:
- Sunlight: Full sun is essential
- Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely critical; this plant will not tolerate wet feet
- Water: Drought tolerant once established; actually prefers drier conditions
- Climate: Thrives in zones 1-4; struggles in warmer climates
- Fertilizer: Minimal to none—these plants are adapted to nutrient-poor soils
Planting Tips
Getting Roald’s locoweed established can be the trickiest part. Here are some tips for success:
- Start with seeds that have been cold stratified (exposed to cold, moist conditions for several weeks)
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Ensure excellent drainage—consider raised beds or rock gardens
- Be patient; arctic plants often grow slowly but steadily
- Source plants or seeds responsibly from reputable native plant suppliers
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
One of the best reasons to grow Roald’s locoweed is its value to native wildlife. This plant has co-evolved with arctic and subarctic pollinators, providing crucial nectar and pollen sources in environments where flowering plants can be scarce. Native bees, in particular, have strong relationships with Oxytropis species.
The Bottom Line
Roald’s locoweed isn’t going to win any easiest plant to grow contests, and it’s definitely not suited for traditional perennial borders in temperate climates. But for gardeners in the coldest regions of North America who want to celebrate their local flora, support native pollinators, and grow something truly unique, this hardy arctic native offers rewards that go far beyond typical garden fare.
Just remember: this is a plant that demands respect for its specific needs. Give it the well-drained, sunny conditions it craves in a suitably cold climate, and you’ll have a conversation piece that connects your garden to some of the wildest places on the continent.
