Contents
Description
Erucaria Hispanica, also known as Spanish Rocket, is a member of the Brassicaceae family. This biennial or perennial herbaceous plant is native to the Western Mediterranean region and Northern Africa. The plant can grow up to 80cm in height and produces bright yellow flowers that bloom during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Erucaria |
Appearance
Erucaria Hispanica features green, lobed leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The plant’s stems are hairy and can be either upright or sprawling. The plant’s vibrant yellow flowers grow in clusters and bloom during the summer months. The flowers are followed by long, narrow seed pods.
Care Guide
Erucaria Hispanica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. Erucaria Hispanica prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Erucaria Hispanica is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including flea beetles, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Erucaria Hispanica is native to the Western Mediterranean region and Northern Africa. It can be found growing in rocky areas, on roadsides, and in fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Erucaria Hispanica a perennial or biennial plant?
A: Erucaria Hispanica can be either a biennial or perennial plant depending on growing conditions.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Erucaria Hispanica?
A: Erucaria Hispanica prefers soil that is slightly alkaline with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Erucaria Hispanica?
A: Erucaria Hispanica is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Q: How can I control pests on my Erucaria Hispanica plant?
A: Pests such as flea beetles and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Related Plants
- Erucaria hispanica var. hispanica
- Erucaria hispanica var. apiculata
- Erucaria hispanica var. brachycarpa
References
- “Erucaria hispanica (L.) DC.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2021.
- “Erucaria hispanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2021.
- “Erucaria hispanica (L.) DC.” Euro+Med Plantbase. Botanic Garden and Botanical Museum Berlin-Dahlem, n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2021.
