Contents
Description
Draba Oreades, commonly known as mountain whitlowgrass, is a small alpine plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the European Alps, Pyrenees, and the Balkans. The plant typically grows to a height of 3-10 cm and has basal leaves that form a rosette.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Draba |
Appearance
Draba Oreades has small white flowers that bloom from May to August. The flowers are arranged in corymbs and have four petals. The plant has a woody stem that is covered with minute hairs. The leaves of the plant are spoon-shaped and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant’s fruit is a silique that is about 1-2 cm long, with a slightly curved shape.
Care Guide
Draba Oreades is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant thrives in well-drained soil and does not require much water. Water the plant sparingly, making sure not to overwater it.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization as it can obtain the necessary nutrients from the soil.
- Soil: Draba Oreades thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Draba Oreades can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Draba Oreades is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and curl. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing damage to the plant’s growth. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Downy Mildew: This fungal disease can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Draba Oreades is native to the European Alps, Pyrenees, and the Balkans. It grows in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and crevices. The plant prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level. It can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Draba Oreades grow in containers?
A: Yes, Draba Oreades can grow in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered sparingly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Draba Oreades?
A: Draba Oreades does not require fertilization as it can obtain the necessary nutrients from the soil.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for Draba Oreades?
A: Draba Oreades can tolerate cold temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: How do I propagate Draba Oreades?
A: Draba Oreades can be propagated by seed or by division of the plant’s clumps in the spring.
Related Plants
- Draba Aizoides
- Draba Verna
- Draba Nevadensis
References
- “Draba Oreades.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Draba Oreades.” Royal Horticultural Society.
- “Draba Oreades.” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden.
