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Description
Rorippa Cantoniensis, also known as Chinese watercress or Canton cress, is a species of aquatic flowering plant from the Brassicaceae family. It is native to China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia and is commonly found in wetlands, rice paddies, and shallow streams. The plant has a pungent aroma and is commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a salad green or in stir-fries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Rorippa |
Appearance
Rorippa Cantoniensis has long, slender stems that can grow up to 60cm in length. The leaves are dark green and have a distinctive spicy aroma. The flowers are small and white with four petals and are produced in clusters. The plant is often mistaken for watercress but has a stronger flavor and a slightly different appearance.
Care Guide
Rorippa Cantoniensis is an easy plant to care for and requires minimal attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the plant in a container of water or in a wet, boggy area. The water should be changed frequently to prevent stagnation.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of aquatic fertilizer if desired.
- Soil: The plant does not require soil, but you can add a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom of the container to anchor the roots.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Rorippa Cantoniensis is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rorippa Cantoniensis is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the water is not changed frequently or if the plant is kept in stagnant water for too long. The plant can also be affected by aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Rorippa Cantoniensis is native to China, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia and can be found growing in wetlands, rice paddies, and shallow streams. The plant prefers cool, flowing water and can tolerate partially shaded conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rorippa Cantoniensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rorippa Cantoniensis can be grown in a container of water with a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom to anchor the roots.
Q: Can Rorippa Cantoniensis be used in cooking?
A: Yes, Rorippa Cantoniensis is commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a salad green or in stir-fries.
Q: Does Rorippa Cantoniensis require fertilization?
A: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of aquatic fertilizer if desired.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rorippa Cantoniensis?
A: Rorippa Cantoniensis is hardy in zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Rorippa Islandica
- Rorippa Palustris
- Nasturtium Officinale
- Cleome Gynandra
References
- “Rorippa Cantoniensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a535.
- “Rorippa Cantoniensis.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/191931/.
