Richteria

This unusual looking plant is a 'must' for the alpine enthusiast. Originating in Russia, it has evolved a unique hairy coating to its leaves that looks a bit like cotton wool. This traps air and helps to insulate the foliage from the cold temperatures. Grow it in large pans of free-draining gritty compost and keep in the protection of a cold greenhouse during the winter months. The foliage may become saturated and rot during long periods of cold wet weather.