Contents
Description
Aethionema Saxatile, also known as Stonecress, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the mountains of southern Europe and western Asia, but it can also be found in other areas of the world, such as North America and Australia. The plant has a low-growing habit and produces bright pink or white flowers that bloom in early spring. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens and borders, as it adds a splash of color to any landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Aethionema |
Appearance
The Aethionema Saxatile plant has a compact and spreading habit with a height of up to 10 inches and a width of up to 12 inches. It has a rosette of narrow, grey-green leaves that are about 2 inches long. The flowers are small and clustered at the top of the stems, with each flower having four petals that are pink or white. The plant blooms in early spring, and the flowers can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Aethionema Saxatile is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Amend the soil with compost or sand if necessary.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as profusely.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aethionema Saxatile is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. In addition, the plant can be affected by aphids, snails, and slugs. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and free from debris, and use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Habitat
Aethionema Saxatile is native to the mountains of southern Europe and western Asia. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil in sunny to partially shaded areas. The plant can also be found in other areas of the world, such as North America and Australia, where it is often cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Aethionema Saxatile be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Aethionema Saxatile?
A: The plant does not require much fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring, and do not fertilize it again for the rest of the growing season.
Q: Can Aethionema Saxatile be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by seeds or by taking stem cuttings in early summer. Plant the seeds or cuttings in well-draining soil, and keep them moist until they have established roots.
Q: How often should I water Aethionema Saxatile?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause root rot.
Related Plants
- Aethionema cordifolium
- Aethionema grandiflorum
- Aethionema armenum
References
- “Aethionema Saxatile.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed Aug. 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c265
- “Aethionema Saxatile.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed Aug. 12, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18003/Aethionema-saxatile/Details
- “Aethionema Saxatile.” University of Minnesota Extension. Accessed Aug. 12, 2021. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/aethionema-saxatile
