Description of Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal, commonly known as the intermediate rockcress, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a variant of the Arabis confinis species that grows in southwestern North America and is native to Arizona, Nevada, and California.
General appearance
This plant has a compact, spreading habit and typically grows up to 20-60 cm tall. It has a taproot with several basal leaves that are oblanceolate or spatulate in shape. Its stems are pubescent and unbranched, while the leaves have short petioles and finely toothed margins. The intermediate rockcress typically blooms from March to May, and its flowers are pink or lavender, small and arranged in clusters at the end of the stalks.
Common names
The intermediate rockcress has several common names apart from its scientific name. These include the Bumblebee rockcress, Dwarf rockcress, Pink rockcress, and Spreading rockcress.
Uses
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita does not have any known medicinal uses. However, it is an excellent landscape plant and is suitable as a garden border or groundcover. The plant is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal, as it provides a striking visual interest with its delicate pink flowers and attractive foliage.
The plant is also used as forage for wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and rodents that feed on its foliage and seeds. It is a food source for various species of butterflies and bees who are attracted to its nectar.
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita is also capable of adapting to a wide range of soil types, making it a suitable plant for landscape use in many different types of gardens.
Light Requirements
The Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal typically requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with hot summers, this plant may need to be protected from harsh midday sun.
Temperature Requirements
The Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal can typically tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in cooler climates with temperatures ranging from 45 - 70°F (7 - 21°C).
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can also tolerate a wide range of soil types, including acidic, alkaline, sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it is generally best to avoid excessively wet or dry soils, as Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal can be sensitive to waterlogged or drought-stressed conditions.
Cultivation Methods of Arabis Confinis S. Wats. Var. Interposita
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita is a low creeping plant that grows well in alpine and subalpine meadows. The best cultivation method for this plant is to transplant it from the wild. This allows the plant to acclimate to the growing conditions of your garden and ensures a higher survival rate.
When transplanting, choose a location with well-draining soil and partial shade. The plant prefers moist, cool conditions but can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Propagation is possible through seed germination, but it can be challenging. Seeds require specific temperature and moisture conditions to germinate.
Watering Needs of Arabis Confinis S. Wats. Var. Interposita
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot summers. However, it is vital to avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply, but allow the soil to dry out partially before watering again.
During the winter months, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging, which can damage the plant's roots.
Fertilization of Arabis Confinis S. Wats. Var. Interposita
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita prefers nutrient-rich soil, but too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth and poor flowering. For optimal growth, use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 mix, and apply it in early spring.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the hot summer months and late fall as it can stimulate new growth that is vulnerable to frost damage.
Pruning of Arabis Confinis S. Wats. Var. Interposita
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita requires minimal pruning as it is a low-growing plant that looks best when allowed to grow in its natural shape. However, pruning can be done to control its size and shape.
Pinch back new growth in the spring to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming and prevent self-seeding. After flowering, cut back any dead or damaged stems to improve the plant's appearance.
Propagation of Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal is a perennial plant commonly known as spreading rock cress. It is a low-growing plant that is suitable for rock gardens, borders, and as ground covers. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be achieved through various methods such as seed sowing, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed sowing
Propagation through seed sowing is the easiest and most economical method. Seeds of Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal can be sown directly in the garden bed during early spring or fall. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The bed should be kept moist until germination, which can take up to two weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
Propagation through division is another method that can be used to reproduce Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal. This method involves digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system. The separated sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil and watered thoroughly. This method is typically done during early spring or fall.
Stem cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is a less commonly used method but can still be effective. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the plant during the summer season when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and vigorous shoots and should be approximately four to six inches long. The stem cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they root and develop new shoots.
Disease and Pest Management of Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal
Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal is a hardy perennial that is generally resistant to most diseases and pests. However, certain factors like environmental conditions, watering schedule and soil quality can make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot - Crown rot is a disease that affects the base of the plant which causes the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. To manage crown rot, ensure the soil is well-drained to avoid water stagnation that encourages rotting. Additionally, avoid over-fertilizing the plant and instead use slow-release fertilizers.
Fungal Leaf Spots - Fungal leaf spots appear as small yellow spots on the leaves that gradually enlarge. To prevent and manage fungal leaf spots, ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil, avoid overcrowding the plant, and maintain a proper watering schedule that ensures the leaves dry out quickly.
Pests
Whiteflies - Whiteflies are small, white-winged insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, leading to stunted growth and death. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap to control their population. Additionally, avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to an increase in whiteflies.
Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that are green or black in color and congregate at the top of the plant's stem and leaves. They also suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and death. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, prune the affected areas, and avoid overcrowding the plant.
In conclusion, Arabis confinis S. Wats. var. interposita (Greene) Welsh & Reveal is a hardy perennial that is generally resistant to most diseases and pests. However, certain environmental conditions, watering schedules, and soil quality can cause the plant to be susceptible to pests and diseases. With proper management practices, you can keep the plant healthy and thriving all year round.
