Overview
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins is a member of the mustards family (Brassicaceae). It is a small and fragrant plant native to the northeastern United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Fernald's rockcress, Fernald's bittercress, or simply rockcress.
Appearance
Fernald's rockcress is an herbaceous perennial that grows up to 20 cm tall. The plant has a basal rosette of leaves and small white flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in terminal racemes. The leaves are oval-shaped and grayish-green in color, with toothed margins.
Uses
Fernald's rockcress is not commonly used for culinary or medicinal purposes. However, the plant is often grown as an ornamental plant because of its early spring bloom, attractive foliage, and pleasant fragrance. It is also used in rock gardens, borders, and as a groundcover. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Light Requirements
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins prefers full sun to partial shade. This plant will thrive in bright light conditions, but it can tolerate some shade during the hottest part of the day. Too much shade may cause reduced flowering and weaker stems.
Temperature Requirements
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins prefers cool temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C and 21°C). During the summer months, some protection may be necessary to shelter this plant from the intense afternoon sun and high temperatures. A mild climate is ideal for this plant, and it can tolerate some cold weather as well.
Soil Requirements
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins prefers a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and able to retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain away. This plant is not drought tolerant and will require regular watering during dry spells. An application of balanced fertilizer during the growing season will help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Cultivation methods
The Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins, commonly known as Fernald's Rockcress, thrives well in well-draining soils and areas with good air circulation. This plant requires full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. The best planting time is during spring or early autumn
Watering needs
Fernald's Rockcress requires moderate watering during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The soil should be evenly moist, but not waterlogged. During hot and dry weather, water frequently, but reduce the frequency during cold months.
Fertilization
This plant requires minimal fertilization, especially if grown in rich soils. Only apply slow-release granular fertilizers once a year during the early spring season to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Pruning
Fernald's Rockcress does not require heavy pruning. Remove only the spent flowers and damaged leaves or branches during the growing season. Pruning helps maintain the plant's compact and attractive shape.
Propagation of Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins, commonly known as Fernald's rockcress, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done through two methods:
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagating Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins is through seeds. Seeds can be harvested from the parent plant when they are ripe and can be directly sown in well-draining soil. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist until germination occurs. Seeds can also be started indoors, 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.
It is vital to use fresh seed as Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins seeds tend to lose their viability quickly. If stored correctly under cool and dry conditions, seeds can remain viable for up to a year.
Propagation through Cuttings
Another method of propagating Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins is through cuttings. Stem cuttings, taken during early summertime, are used to generate new plants. The cuttings should be taken from younger stems, just below the leaf node, and their lower leaves should be removed. It is advisable to dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to improve the chances of rooting. They can then be potted in a well-draining soil mixture and placed somewhere with bright, indirect light and preferably high levels of humidity.
After a few weeks, the cuttings should have produced roots, and they can then be transplanted to their permanent location. However, this method of propagation has a lower success rate compared to seed propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins is a hardy wildflower that doesn't typically suffer from significant disease or insect pest problems. However, it's still vulnerable to a few common ailments that can negatively impact its growth and health.
Common Plant Diseases
One of the most significant health risks facing this plant is fungal diseases. The most common fungal diseases that impact Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery mildew is identifiable by the white, powdery substance that forms on the leaves and stems of the plant. It doesn't usually cause significant damage to the plant, but it can reduce the plant's aesthetic quality and stunt its growth. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected foliage and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that attacks the leaves of the plant, causing black spots to form. This disease can weaken the plant and eventually kill it. To prevent leaf spot, maintain good sanitation practices by keeping the area around the plant clean and free from debris. The use of fungicides can also help to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root rot is a fungal disease that occurs when the soil around the plant becomes waterlogged, causing the roots to rot. This disease can kill the plant if left untreated. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering the plant. If root rot is detected, remove the plant from the soil and replant it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Common Plant Pests
Arabis fernaldiana Rollins var. typica Rollins is also vulnerable to a few common insect pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing it to wilt and distort. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and can lead to the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests and their eggs.
Mealybugs are small, white insects that look similar to bits of cotton. Like aphids, mealybugs feed on the plant's sap, but they are more challenging to control due to their waxy coating. To manage mealybugs, use a systemic insecticide or dab the insects with rubbing alcohol.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's sap, causing it to turn yellow and eventually die. They spin webbing on the plant's surface, which is a tell-tale sign of their presence. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the pests and their eggs.
By regularly inspecting and caring for the plant, it's possible to prevent disease and pest problems from occurring or catching them at the earliest stage. In cases of severe infestation or disease, it may be necessary to remove and replace the plant.
