Plant Description
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins, also known as Lemmon's rockcress, is a perennial subshrub that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It has a compact growth habit and can reach a height of up to 30 cm. The stems are woody at the base and green above, with sparse hairs. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate to oblanceolate in shape, and covered with white hairs. The flowers are small and white, arranged in terminal clusters or racemes, with four petals that are about 3-5 mm long.
Plant Origin and Distribution
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins is native to western North America, particularly to the mountains of California, Nevada, and Oregon. It prefers dry, rocky slopes and ridges, as well as talus and cliffs, at elevations of 1000-3500 m. It can also be found in subalpine and alpine zones.
Common Names
Lemmon's rockcress is the most common name for Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins. Other names include Sierra rockcress and Lemmon's brittlestem.
Uses
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is often planted as an ornamental plant in rock gardens or alpine-style gardens, due to its attractive white flowers and compact habit. It can also be used in erosion control and habitat restoration projects, as it is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant.
Light requirements
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins require full sun to partial shade to grow well. They thrive in an outdoor environment where they can have access to direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. When cultivating the plant indoors, providing ample artificial light will promote healthy growth.
Temperature requirements
The typical growth condition of Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins requires a moderate temperature that ranges between 20-30°C. As a cold-hardy plant, it can withstand frost and cooler temperatures, although it thrives best in a milder climate. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures that exceed 35°C or drop below -15°C.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers a moist and well-drained soil with organic matter that retains adequate moisture. The ideal soil pH ranges between 6.0 to 7.5, and it should be rich in nitrogen and phosphorus elements. The plant requires excellent drainage, therefore soil with some mixture of sand and perlite are preferred. Regular watering is required in hot weather conditions and as the soil dries out. Regular fertilization will also enhance plant growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of different climates. It requires full sunlight, and well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If planting in a container, choose a pot that is at least 6 inches deep and wide.
When planting in the ground, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches, and then mix in some compost or other organic matter. This will help improve soil drainage and provide necessary nutrients.
Plant the Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins seedlings at least 6 inches apart to give them enough space to develop fully. Water them immediately after planting and keep the soil moist but not too wet throughout the growing season.
Watering Needs
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins needs regular watering to thrive. Watering should be done carefully, ensuring that the water reaches the roots and not overwatering that can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered once a week during the growing season, and the watering frequency can be reduced during the winter season.
It's best to water the plant early in the day to allow excess moisture to evaporate before nighttime, which can prevent diseases caused by fungal growth. The soil should be moist but not soggy. Always check the soil moisture before watering and avoid watering if the topsoil is still moist.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth, fertilize the Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins with a balanced fertilizer, high in nitrogen before the growing season starts. Fertilization can also be done every four to six weeks with a liquid fertilizer for optimum growth.
The amount of fertilizer used should be appropriate as over-fertilization and high levels of nitrogen can lead to foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Pruning the Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins is essential to maintain optimum growth and bloom. The plant should be pruned right after blooming to maintain its shape and promote bushiness.
The ideal tool for pruning is pruning shears. When pruning, remove dead or spent flowers, along with any damaged or diseased foliage. It is also recommended to cut back any yellowing leaves or growth as this can affect the plant's health.
However, avoid over-pruning as it can decrease flowers production and weaken the plant. After pruning, dispose of the debris properly, so that no pest infestation occurs.
Propagation of Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins, commonly known as Lemmon's rockcress, is a flowering plant species that is native to western North America. It is a popular garden plant that requires proper propagation techniques to produce healthy plants.
Propagation methods
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Seed propagation
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins. The plant produces small, round seeds that can be collected from mature seedpods. These seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. The seeds should be kept moist and placed in a warm, bright location. Germination usually occurs within three weeks.
Cutting propagation
Propagation by cuttings is less common but can be successful for Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be about four inches long and dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a soilless mix. They should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area. Rooting usually occurs within four to six weeks.
Propagation of Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins can be a rewarding experience for gardeners who wish to expand their collection and enjoy the beauty of this plant species.
Disease and Pest Management for Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins
Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins, also known as Lemmon's rockcress, is a drought-tolerant and tough plant that can thrive in various conditions. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are the common diseases and pests that might affect Arabis lemmonii and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Black spot: Black spot is a common fungal disease that can infect Arabis lemmonii. It causes black spots on the leaves and can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage black spot, remove infected leaves as soon as possible and dispose of them away from the plant. Ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides such as copper-based can also be applied.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is another fungal disease that can affect Arabis lemmonii, causing brown or black spots on the leaves. The disease can spread quickly in wet conditions. To manage anthracnose, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides such as copper-based can also be applied.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Fungicides such as those containing Trichoderma can also be applied.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. They can also transmit viruses from one plant to another. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can cause physical damage to the leaves, leaving holes and slime trails. To manage slugs and snails, remove debris and mulch around the plant to reduce their hiding places. Use traps or baits such as beer to lure and drown them.
By keeping a watchful eye on Arabis lemmonii S. Wats. var. typica Rollins and employing these disease and pest management strategies, you can help your plant remain healthy and beautiful.
