Contents
Description
Kernera saxatilis, commonly known as the rock whitlowgrass, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in rocky and stony areas. The plant produces clusters of small white flowers that bloom in early spring, and it is often used as an ornamental plant in alpine rock gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Kernera |
Appearance
Kernera saxatilis is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of up to 10cm. It has small, oval-shaped leaves that are deep green in color, and it produces clusters of small white flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in a flat-topped cluster. The plant has a spreading habit and forms a dense mat of foliage, making it an excellent ground cover plant.
Care Guide
Kernera saxatilis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Kernera saxatilis prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kernera saxatilis is not commonly affected by pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that may affect the plant:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing damage.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the plant in humid conditions.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant.
Habitat
Kernera saxatilis is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in rocky and stony areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant in alpine rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kernera saxatilis a good ground cover plant?
A: Yes, Kernera saxatilis is an excellent ground cover plant due to its spreading habit and dense mat of foliage.
Q: What kind of soil does Kernera saxatilis prefer?
A: Kernera saxatilis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kernera saxatilis?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Kernera saxatilis?
A: Kernera saxatilis is not commonly affected by pests and diseases, but slugs and snails, powdery mildew, and root rot can be issues.
Related Plants
- Kernera amplexicaulis
- Kernera saxosa
- Kernera sinuata
- Kernera turkestanica
References
- “Kernera saxatilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c436.
- “Kernera saxatilis.” Plant Finder, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:283187-1.
- “Kernera saxatilis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12731/Kernera-saxatilis/Details.
