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Description
Boechera canadensis, also known as Canadian rockcress, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the mustard family. It is native to North America, growing in rocky habitats, talus slopes, and dry meadows. This plant typically reaches a height of 20-60 cm and blooms in the spring with clusters of small white or pink flowers. Boechera canadensis is known for its hardiness and adaptability to a variety of growing conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Boechera |
Appearance
Boechera canadensis has a basal rosette of leaves that are green and pubescent. The leaves are typically lance-shaped and can grow up to 10 cm long. The stem of the plant is smooth and can vary in color from green to purple. The flowers of Boechera canadensis are small, white or pink, and are arranged in clusters. They bloom in the spring and are followed by small seed pods that contain the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Boechera canadensis is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth, but care should be taken not to apply too much as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers. Boechera canadensis is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boechera canadensis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also be prone to aphids and flea beetles. Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water, while flea beetles can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Boechera canadensis is native to North America, growing in rocky habitats, talus slopes, and dry meadows. It can be found from Alaska to Newfoundland and south to California and Mexico.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Boechera canadensis?
A: Boechera canadensis should be watered regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Boechera canadensis?
A: Boechera canadensis is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Q: What pests are Boechera canadensis prone to?
A: Boechera canadensis may be prone to aphids and flea beetles.
Q: What is the best soil type for Boechera canadensis?
A: Boechera canadensis prefers well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Boechera stricta
- Boechera holboellii
- Boechera retrofracta
- Boechera laevigata
References
- “Boechera canadensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277476&isprofile=0&basic=boechera%20canadensis.
- “Boechera canadensis.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BOCAC.
- “Boechera canadensis.” Wildflower Center. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BOCA2.
