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Description
Rorippa Austriaca, commonly known as Austrian yellow cress, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This herbaceous perennial is native to Europe and Asia, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant grows up to 50 cm in height and produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Rorippa |
Appearance
The leaves of Rorippa Austriaca are dark green and have a pinnate shape. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are small, about 5 mm in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the tip of the stems. The plant grows up to 50 cm in height and 30 cm in width. It has a bushy growth habit and forms clumps.
Care Guide
Rorippa Austriaca is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can cause the plant to become leggy.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
- Hardiness Zones: Rorippa Austriaca grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rorippa Austriaca is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to become stunted. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
- Clubroot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of the plant to become swollen and distorted. There is no cure for clubroot, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Rorippa Austriaca is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in wet meadows, marshes, and along streams. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rorippa Austriaca toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Rorippa Austriaca is toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that they may be tempted to eat.
Q: Can Rorippa Austriaca be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Rorippa Austriaca can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rorippa Austriaca?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can cause the plant to become leggy.
Q: How do I propagate Rorippa Austriaca?
A: Rorippa Austriaca can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps, then replant them in a new location.
Related Plants
- Rorippa Nasturtium-aquaticum
- Rorippa Sylvestris
- Rorippa Palustris
References
- “Rorippa austriaca (Waldst. & Kit.) B. Boivin.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 20 March 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:287446-1.
- “Yellow cress.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 March 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/31954/rorippa-austriaca/details.
- “Rorippa austriaca.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 March 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281416.
