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Description
Draba is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is also commonly known as Whitlow grass. This plant is native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found in many regions including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Draba is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 50 cm tall. It has small, white or yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant is known for its small, round leaves that are arranged in a rosette.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Draba |
Appearance
Draba plants have small, round leaves that are arranged in a rosette. The leaves are typically 1-3 cm in length and are covered in fine hairs. The flowers of the plant are small, white or yellow, and bloom in early spring. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. Draba can grow up to 50 cm tall and has a spreading habit.
Care Guide
Draba plants are relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for them:Water: Draba prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize Draba plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Draba prefers well-draining, sandy soil. Make sure the soil is not too rich, as this can cause the plant to become leggy.Sunlight: Draba prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Draba is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Draba plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, they can sometimes be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and remove any affected leaves or flowers.
Habitat
Draba can be found in many regions across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The plant typically grows in rocky or gravelly soil and can be found in alpine or subalpine regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Draba a perennial or annual plant?
A: Draba can be either an annual or perennial plant.Q: What is the ideal soil type for Draba?
A: Draba prefers well-draining, sandy soil.Q: Does Draba require a lot of sun?
A: Draba prefers full sun to partial shade.Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Draba?
A: Draba can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Draba:- Arabis- Cardamine- Erysimum- Hesperis
References
– “Draba.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 29, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280463.- “Draba.” The Spruce. Accessed June 29, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-whitlow-grass-1403158.
