Contents
Description
Arabis Auriculata, commonly known as Eared Rockcress, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically to the Balkans and Greece. This plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width. It produces white flowers that bloom in the spring season. It is a popular ornamental plant that is commonly grown in rock gardens and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Arabis |
Appearance
Arabis Auriculata has light green leaves that are oval-shaped and slightly hairy. The leaves have a length of up to 6 cm and a width of 3 cm. The white flowers of this plant are small and have a diameter of up to 1 cm. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stems and bloom in the spring season. The plant has a compact growth habit and can spread up to 60 cm in width.
Care Guide
Arabis Auriculata is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist. However, make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in rocky or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Arabis Auriculata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arabis Auriculata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the common ones:
- Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Whiteflies: These pests feed on the undersides of leaves and can cause the leaves to turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Fungal diseases: Arabis Auriculata is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be controlled by using a fungicide.
Habitat
Arabis Auriculata is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically to the Balkans and Greece. It grows in rocky or sandy areas and can also be found in meadows and forests. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Arabis Auriculata grow in full shade?
A: While Arabis Auriculata prefers full sun, it can also grow in partial shade. However, it may not bloom as much in full shade.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Arabis Auriculata?
A: Arabis Auriculata prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Q: How often should I fertilize Arabis Auriculata?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Arabis Auriculata?
A: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist. However, make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Arabis blepharophylla
- Arabis caucasica
- Arabis ferdinandi-coburgii
- Arabis hirsuta
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/arabis-auriculata-eared-rockcress
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/rockcress/growing-arabis-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/arabis-caucasica
