Arabis Caucasica

Description

Arabis Caucasica is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Caucasus region of Eurasia. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is commonly known as Caucasus rock cress or Caucasian wallcress. The plant grows up to 15 inches in height and has a spread of about 18 inches. It produces masses of small white flowers that bloom in early spring.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Brassicales
Family	Brassicaceae
Genus	Arabis

Appearance

Arabis Caucasica has a compact, mounded growth habit and forms a dense mat of foliage. Its leaves are dark green, hairy, and lance-shaped. The plant produces small, white or pale pink flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of its stems. The flowers have four petals and are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The plant blooms in early spring and has a pleasant, sweet fragrance.

Care Guide

Water: Arabis Caucasica prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize Arabis Caucasica with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to produce too much foliage at the expense of flowers.Soil: Arabis Caucasica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.Sunlight: Arabis Caucasica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate light shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Arabis Caucasica is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Arabis Caucasica is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and avoid over-fertilizing. If pests or diseases do occur, treat them with an insecticidal soap or fungicide.

Habitat

Arabis Caucasica is native to rocky slopes and mountain meadows in the Caucasus region of Eurasia. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures, from cool mountain climates to hot, dry summers.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Arabis Caucasica deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Arabis Caucasica is deer-resistant.

Q: Can Arabis Caucasica be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Arabis Caucasica can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.

Q: How often should I prune Arabis Caucasica?

A: Prune Arabis Caucasica lightly after it has finished flowering to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

Q: Can Arabis Caucasica be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Arabis Caucasica can be propagated from cuttings taken in early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.

Related Plants

• Arabis alpina
• Arabis blepharophylla
• Arabis caucasica ‘Compinkie’
• Arabis ferdinandi-coburgii
• Arabis hirsuta

References

• “Arabis Caucasica” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b328
• “Arabis Caucasica” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10783/i-Arabis-caucasica-i/Details
• “Arabis Caucasica” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/1288/Arabis-Caucasica/