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Description
Oreopolus Glacialis, also known as Alpine Rockcress or Glacier Rockcress, is a stunning alpine plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This perennial herb is native to the mountains of North America and can be found growing in rocky crevices and open meadows at high elevations. Oreopolus Glacialis is a hardy plant that can survive in harsh environments and is known for its beautiful, delicate flowers.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Brassicales |
Family | Brassicaceae |
Genus | Oreopolus |
Species | Glacialis |
Appearance
Oreopolus Glacialis is a small, clump-forming plant that grows up to six inches in height. It has basal leaves that are 1-2 inches long and deeply lobed, with toothed edges. The leaves are green and slightly hairy. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, producing beautiful, fragrant white or pink flowers that are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant produces seed pods that contain tiny, black seeds.
Care Guide
Oreopolus Glacialis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing this beautiful alpine plant:- Water: Oreopolus Glacialis prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.- Soil: Oreopolus Glacialis prefers well-draining, rocky soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in weak growth and fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Oreopolus Glacialis is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oreopolus Glacialis is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and black spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Oreopolus Glacialis is native to the mountains of North America, where it can be found growing in rocky crevices and open meadows at elevations of 8,000-13,000 feet. It prefers cool temperatures and well-draining soil. This plant is adapted to harsh mountain environments and can withstand extreme cold, strong winds, and intense sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oreopolus Glacialis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Oreopolus Glacialis can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I water Oreopolus Glacialis?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Does Oreopolus Glacialis require fertilizer?
A: No, Oreopolus Glacialis does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Oreopolus Glacialis?
A: Oreopolus Glacialis is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Related Plants
– Arabis alpina (Alpine Rockcress)- Draba alpina (Alpine Whitlowgrass)- Saxifraga oppositifolia (Purple Saxifrage)- Eritrichium aretioides (Moroccan Forget-Me-Not)
References
– “Oreopolus Glacialis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 April 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286184- “Alpine Rockcress.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 27 April 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/rockcress/growing-alpine-rockcress.htm- “Oreopolus Glacialis.” PlantFiles. Accessed 27 April 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/158208/