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Description
Lepidium Draba, also known as Hoary Cress or Whitetop, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to many parts of North America, where it has become an invasive species. Hoary Cress is a hardy plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a deep root system that makes it difficult to control. Its leaves are grayish-green and covered with fine hairs that give them a whitish appearance. It produces small white flowers in clusters that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Lepidium |
Appearance
Hoary Cress has a bushy appearance and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are grayish-green and covered with fine hairs that give them a whitish appearance. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are small and white, with four petals that are arranged in a cross shape. They bloom in clusters in late spring to early summer. The plant produces small pods that contain the seeds, which are about 1/16 inch in size and light brown in color.
Care Guide
Hoary Cress is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall. However, it can also grow in areas with high moisture levels, such as wetlands and riverbanks.Water: Hoary Cress does not require a lot of water once it is established. Watering once a week during dry periods is usually sufficient.Fertilization: Hoary Cress does not require fertilization, but adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve its growth.Soil: Hoary Cress prefers well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: Hoary Cress prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Hoary Cress can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hoary Cress is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by leaf spot or powdery mildew if the weather is humid. Invasive species like hoary cress are often able to outcompete native plants, therefore reducing biodiversity.
Habitat
Hoary Cress is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to many parts of North America. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, open woodlands, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. Hoary Cress is an invasive species that can quickly dominate an area and outcompete native plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hoary Cress an invasive species?
A: Yes, Hoary Cress is an invasive species that can quickly dominate an area and outcompete native plants.
Q: Can Hoary Cress grow in wetlands?
A: Yes, Hoary Cress can grow in wetlands and riverbanks.
Q: Does Hoary Cress require a lot of water?
A: No, Hoary Cress does not require a lot of water once it is established. Watering once a week during dry periods is usually sufficient.
Q: What is the best way to control Hoary Cress?
A: The best way to control Hoary Cress is to prevent its spread by removing it before it goes to seed. If it has already spread, it can be controlled with herbicides or by digging up the roots.
Related Plants
- Lepidium Sativum
- Lepidium Meyenii
- Lepidium Virginicum
References
- “Hoary Cress.” USDA Forest Service, 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/lepdro/all.html
- “Lepidium Draba.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a802
- “Hoary Cress.” Montana Field Guide, Montana Natural Heritage Program, 2021. https://fieldguide.mt.gov/speciesDetail.aspx?elcode=PDBRA1X010
