Contents
Description
Thlaspi is a genus of annual and perennial plants that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is commonly known as penny-cress or pennycress. The plants are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and grow well in cool and moist environments. They are known for their beautiful white or pinkish flowers that bloom in clusters from spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Thlaspi |
Appearance
Thlaspi plants have a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves are green and ovate in shape, and have a slightly serrated edge. The flowers are small, white or pinkish in color, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. They bloom from spring to summer, and are followed by small, round seed pods that ripen in late summer or early fall.
Care Guide
Thlaspi plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for your Thlaspi plant:
Water: Thlaspi plants prefer moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Thlaspi plants do not require regular fertilization. However, you can fertilize them once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Thlaspi plants prefer well-draining, moist soil. They can grow in a wide range of soil types, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight: Thlaspi plants prefer partial shade to full sun. However, they can tolerate full shade in cooler climates.
Hardiness Zones: Thlaspi plants are hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thlaspi plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by flea beetles and aphids. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Thlaspi plants can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Thlaspi plants are native to Europe, Asia, and North America. They grow well in cool and moist environments, such as meadows, woodlands, and along streams and rivers. Thlaspi plants are also commonly found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and waste places.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thlaspi an annual or perennial plant?
A: Thlaspi can be an annual or perennial plant, depending on the species.
Q: Can Thlaspi plants grow in full shade?
A: Thlaspi plants can tolerate full shade in cooler climates.
Q: What type of soil do Thlaspi plants prefer?
A: Thlaspi plants prefer well-draining, moist soil. They can grow in a wide range of soil types, but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Thlaspi plants?
A: Thlaspi plants can be affected by flea beetles, aphids, powdery mildew, and downy mildew.
Related Plants
- Brassica nigra
- Brassica rapa
- Cardaria draba
- Capsella bursa-pastoris
References
- “Thlaspi.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2021.
- “Thlaspi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2021.
- “Thlaspi.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. Web. 10 Nov. 2021.
