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Description
Barbarea Intermedia, also known as intermediate yellow rocket or Barbarea vulgaris, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America and other regions. The plant is known for its yellow flowers, which bloom in the spring and early summer, and its leaves, which are edible and have a mild, peppery taste. Barbarea Intermedia is also used in traditional medicine and has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledonae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Barbarea |
Appearance
Barbarea Intermedia grows up to 2 feet tall and has a basal rosette of leaves. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and pinnately lobed, with a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are bright yellow and have four petals that form a cross shape. The plant produces elongated seed pods that split open when ripe to release the seeds. Barbarea Intermedia has a deep taproot that allows it to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Care Guide
Barbarea Intermedia is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels and does not require fertilization. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Barbarea Intermedia is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Barbarea Intermedia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids, flea beetles, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or downy mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Barbarea Intermedia is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides in Europe and Asia. It has been introduced to North America and is now found in many regions of the United States and Canada. The plant prefers open, sunny areas and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Barbarea Intermedia edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Barbarea Intermedia are edible and have a mild, peppery taste. They can be used in salads or cooked as a vegetable.
Q: Does Barbarea Intermedia have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Barbarea Intermedia has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: How do I propagate Barbarea Intermedia?
A: Barbarea Intermedia can be propagated by seed or by division. The plant self-seeds readily, so it is important to deadhead the flowers if you do not want it to spread too much.
Q: Is Barbarea Intermedia a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Barbarea Intermedia is an excellent plant for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The bright yellow flowers attract a variety of pollinators.
Related Plants
- Barbarea Orthoceras
- Barbarea Rupicola
- Barbarea Verna
- Barbarea Vulgaris
References
- “Barbarea vulgaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j200>
- “Barbarea vulgaris.” Plants For A Future. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Barbarea+vulgaris>
- “Yellow rocket (Barbarea vulgaris).” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/yellow-rocket>
