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Description
Hesperis Sibirica, also known as Siberian rocket, is a biennial or perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to the alpine regions of Central and Eastern Asia, including China, Mongolia, and Siberia. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its beautiful purple or white flowers and sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Hesperis |
Appearance
Hesperis Sibirica grows up to 120 cm in height and 60 cm in width. It has a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves that are up to 20 cm long and 4 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and slightly hairy. The plant produces upright stems that bear clusters of fragrant, four-petaled flowers that are 2-3 cm in diameter. The flowers can be purple or white and bloom from late spring to early summer. The fruit is a long, narrow pod that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Hesperis Sibirica prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize Hesperis Sibirica with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Hesperis Sibirica grows best in well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with organic matter before planting to improve drainage and soil fertility.
Sunlight
Hesperis Sibirica prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Hesperis Sibirica is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hesperis Sibirica is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. Treat these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Hesperis Sibirica is native to alpine regions of Central and Eastern Asia, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soil. The plant is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes throughout the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hesperis Sibirica a perennial or biennial plant?
A: Hesperis Sibirica can be either a biennial or perennial plant.
Q: What is the best time to plant Hesperis Sibirica?
A: Hesperis Sibirica can be planted in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Hesperis Sibirica grow in containers?
A: Yes, Hesperis Sibirica can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Can Hesperis Sibirica tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Hesperis Sibirica is frost-tolerant and can survive temperatures as low as -30°C.
Related Plants
- Hesperis matronalis (Dame’s Rocket)
- Hesperis pinnatifida (Cutleaf Hesperis)
- Hesperis tristis (Night-scented Hesperis)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Hesperis sibirica. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e169
- RHS. (2021). Hesperis sibirica. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/205679/Hesperis-sibirica/Details
- The Spruce. (2021). Siberian Wallflower (Hesperis sibirica) Plant Profile. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/siberian-wallflower-hesperis-sibirica-plant-profile-4848138
