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Description
Boechera Dentata, commonly known as Rocky Mountain rockcress, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the western United States and Canada and is commonly found in rocky, alpine habitats. This plant grows up to 20 inches tall and has simple, basal leaves that are toothed and slightly hairy. The flowers are small, white, and clustered together in a raceme that blooms in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Boechera |
| Species | Boechera Dentata |
Appearance
The plant has a basal rosette of leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are elliptic and have a toothed margin. The flowers are small and white, with four petals that are 1/8 to 1/4 inch long. The fruit is a slender, cylindrical silique that is 3/4 to 1 1/2 inches long and contains several seeds. The plant blooms from May to August.
Care Guide
Boechera Dentata is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply during prolonged dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost in the spring can help improve soil quality. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boechera Dentata is generally free from major pest and disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and slugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by handpicking. The plant may also develop leaf spot, which can be treated with a copper fungicide.
Habitat
Boechera Dentata is native to the western United States and Canada, where it is commonly found in rocky, alpine habitats. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes. This plant is often found growing on talus slopes, scree, and rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Boechera Dentata a good plant for a rock garden?
A: Yes, Boechera Dentata is an excellent choice for a rock garden due to its low-growing habit and ability to tolerate rocky soils.
Q: Can Boechera Dentata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Boechera Dentata can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Does Boechera Dentata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Boechera Dentata attracts bees and butterflies with its small white flowers.
Q: Can Boechera Dentata be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Boechera Dentata can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Boechera Fendleri
- Boechera Holboellii
- Boechera Stricta
- Boechera Laevigata
References
- “Boechera dentata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281100.
- “Boechera dentata.” Plant Database. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BODE6.
- “Boechera dentata.” Wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest. Accessed 20 July 2021. https://www.pnwflowers.com/flower/boechera-dentata.
