Contents
Description
Arabis Nova is a perennial plant that is native to mountainous regions of Europe. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family and is also known as Rock Cress. Arabis Nova produces white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer months. It is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 6-9 inches with a spread of 12-18 inches. It is widely used as a ground cover plant and is commonly found in rock gardens, borders, and along walls.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Arabis |
Appearance
Arabis Nova has a spreading growth habit and forms a dense mat of foliage. Its leaves are evergreen and are narrow with slightly serrated edges. They are dark green in color and grow to a length of 1-2 inches. The plant produces numerous stems that are covered in small, white or pink flowers. The flowers have four petals and grow in clusters at the end of each stem. They bloom in the spring and early summer months and are a popular choice for rock gardens and borders.
Care Guide
Arabis Nova is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location. The plant should be watered regularly during dry spells, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost in the spring can help to promote healthy growth. Arabis Nova is hardy to USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate cold temperatures and frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arabis Nova is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust in humid conditions. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and to avoid getting the foliage wet when watering.
Habitat
Arabis Nova is native to mountainous regions of Europe and can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soils. It is commonly used as a ground cover plant in rock gardens, borders, and along walls. The plant is well adapted to cold temperatures and can tolerate frost and snow.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Arabis Nova a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Arabis Nova is an easy to grow plant that requires minimal care and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Arabis Nova be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Arabis Nova can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is provided with adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should Arabis Nova be watered?
A: Arabis Nova should be watered regularly during dry spells, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Arabis Nova be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Arabis Nova can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer months.
Related Plants
- Arabis alpina
- Arabis blepharophylla
- Arabis caucasica
- Arabis ferdinandi-coburgii
References
- “Arabis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b621.
- “Arabis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8401/arabis-nova/details.
- “Rock Cress (Arabis).” Garden Design. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/rock-cress.html.
