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Description
Braya Humilis, commonly known as the Arctic Rockcress, is a rare species of flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to the Arctic regions of North America, particularly in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Greenland, and Alaska. The Arctic Rockcress is a small perennial herb that grows up to 5 cm in height and 20 cm in width. It has a woody base, and its leaves are fleshy, narrow, and up to 5 cm long. The flowers of this plant are white, and they bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Braya |
Appearance
The Arctic Rockcress has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plant species. Its woody base and fleshy, narrow leaves give it a distinct look that is both attractive and functional. The leaves of this plant are greenish-grey in color and have a waxy texture that helps them retain moisture. The flowers of the Arctic Rockcress are small, white, and have four petals. They bloom in late spring and early summer and add a beautiful touch to any garden.
Care Guide
Taking care of the Arctic Rockcress requires some attention and care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: The Arctic Rockcress prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is essential to water this plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Fertilize this plant with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season.Soil: The Arctic Rockcress prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is best to plant this plant in a mixture of sand, peat moss, and compost.Sunlight: The Arctic Rockcress prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It is essential to provide this plant with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Arctic Rockcress is hardy in zones 2 to 7, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as -50°F (-45°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Arctic Rockcress is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot, powdery mildew, and aphids. Here are some tips on how to prevent and treat these common pests and diseases:Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant the Arctic Rockcress in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the Arctic Rockcress. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the Arctic Rockcress. To prevent aphids, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Arctic Rockcress is native to the Arctic regions of North America, particularly in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Greenland, and Alaska. This plant grows in rocky and gravelly areas, including mountain slopes, riverbanks, and tundra. The Arctic Rockcress is adapted to the harsh environment of the Arctic, and it can tolerate extreme cold, drought, and strong winds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Arctic Rockcress a rare plant?A: Yes, the Arctic Rockcress is a rare plant species that is only found in the Arctic regions of North America.Q: What is the best time to plant the Arctic Rockcress?A: The best time to plant the Arctic Rockcress is in the spring, after the last frost.Q: Can the Arctic Rockcress be grown in containers?A: Yes, the Arctic Rockcress can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is provided with enough sunlight and water.Q: How long does the Arctic Rockcress bloom?A: The Arctic Rockcress blooms for about four to six weeks in late spring and early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the Brassicaceae family:- Arabidopsis thaliana- Brassica rapa- Capsella bursa-pastoris- Eruca sativa- Raphanus sativus
References
– “Braya humilis” – Arctic Flora and Fauna- “Arctic Rockcress (Braya humilis)” – Canadian Wildlife Federation- “Braya humilis” – Plants of the World Online- “Growing Arctic Rockcress: Tips on Caring for Arctic Rockcress Plants” – Gardening Know How
