Edelweiss is a rare flower that grows in the Alps.

A famous song was written about it.

The author’s mother grew up near the Alps in northeastern Italy.

In that area, edelweiss grows wild on steep, rocky ledges.

As a child, the author heard local stories.

These stories told of young men who died climbing cliffs.

They were trying to pick the flowers for their beloveds.

The good news is that you can grow edelweiss without such risks.

The plant needs alkaline, well-drained rocky or sandy soil.

It also needs low fertility, full sun, and cold winters.

It grows best in areas with lower humidity in horticultural zones 4-7.

It rewards gardeners at high elevations.

Sow seeds outdoors in late fall for winter chilling.

Or plant pre-chilled seeds in early spring.

Press seeds into the soil, but do not bury them.

They sprout in spring and bloom in their second year.

You can also buy starter plants and transplant them after the last frost.

Water regularly in the first year.

After that, they rarely need extra water.

Do not fertilize, except a little in containers.

The plant survives temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Even if you never grow it, you likely know it from the song by Rodgers and Hammerstein.

That song is in the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music.”

The author notes that the flower has inspired risky acts.

It has also inspired generations of gardeners, hikers, and movie lovers.