Contents
Description
Vestia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as the mustard family. It is native to Central Asia, where it grows in rocky and gravelly places at high elevations. Vestia is a low-growing plant that forms a compact cushion of small, gray-green leaves. Its flowers are small and white, and they bloom in late spring or early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Vestia |
Appearance
Vestia is a small, cushion-forming perennial plant that grows up to 15 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Its leaves are small, gray-green, and slightly hairy, with a rosette-like arrangement. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with four petals and six stamens. They bloom in late spring or early summer, and the plant produces small, round seed pods.
Care Guide
Vestia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its optimal growth:
- Water: Vestia prefers well-drained soil and should be watered occasionally during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Vestia does not require fertilization, but adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can help improve its growth.
- Soil: Vestia prefers a well-drained, sandy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Vestia prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Vestia is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vestia is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by aphids, slugs, and snails. It may also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Vestia is native to Central Asia, where it grows in rocky and gravelly places at high elevations. It prefers well-drained, sandy soils and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vestia a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Vestia is an excellent plant for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and ability to tolerate dry conditions.
Q: Can Vestia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vestia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Vestia plant?
A: Vestia prefers well-drained soil and should be watered occasionally during dry periods.
Q: Does Vestia require fertilization?
A: Vestia does not require fertilization, but adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can help improve its growth.
Related Plants
- Brassica nigra
- Cochlearia officinalis
- Eruca sativa
- Hesperis matronalis
References
- “Vestia” in Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=135230. Accessed 26 July 2021.
- “Vestia” in PlantList, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Brassicaceae/Vestia/. Accessed 26 July 2021.
