Contents
Description
Streptanthella is a genus of flowering plants native to North America. It belongs to the family Brassicaceae and includes about 6 species of annual or perennial herbs that grow in rocky or sandy soils in arid or semi-arid habitats. These plants have erect or ascending stems and alternate leaves that are often pinnately divided. The flowers are small, white or yellow, and have four petals arranged in a cross shape. The fruit is a cylindrical or oblong capsule that contains many small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Streptanthella |
Appearance
Streptanthella plants are usually small, ranging from a few centimeters to about 50 cm in height. The stems are slender and covered with short, stiff hairs. The leaves are typically green or gray-green, and are often divided into several lobes or leaflets. The flowers are arranged in small clusters at the ends of the stems, and are usually white or yellow. The fruit is a long, narrow capsule that splits open to release the seeds.
Care Guide
Streptanthella plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips:
- Water: These plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be over-watered. Water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Streptanthella plants do not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: These plants prefer sandy or rocky soil with good drainage. They can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, but prefer slightly alkaline conditions.
- Sunlight: Streptanthella plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but may become spindly if grown in deep shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Streptanthella plants are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Streptanthella plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Streptanthella plants are native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, sand dunes, and desert washes. They are typically found in arid or semi-arid regions and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Streptanthella plants be grown indoors?
A: While Streptanthella plants can be grown indoors, they prefer full sun and may become spindly if grown in low light conditions.
Q: Do Streptanthella plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Streptanthella plants attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Streptanthella plants be fertilized?
A: Streptanthella plants do not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Q: Are Streptanthella plants drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Streptanthella plants are adapted to arid or semi-arid habitats and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Related Plants
- Arabis
- Aurinia
- Brassica
- Capsella
- Draba
References
- Flora of North America: Streptanthella
- USDA Plants Database: Streptanthella
- RHS Gardening: Streptanthella
