Overview
Boechera pendulina (Greene) W.A. Weber, also known as Tall Rockcress, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in the western part of the United States and Canada.
Appearance
Tall Rockcress is a perennial herb that can grow up to a height of 1 meter. It has an upright and branched stem that is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are basal and cauline, and they are pinnately compound with toothed margins. The flowers are white or pale pink and are carried in racemes at the tips of the stems. The fruit is a linear siliqua that contains many seeds.
Common Names
Tall Rockcress is also known by several other common names, including Pendulous Rockcress, Drooping Rockcress, and Western Rockcress.
Uses
Tall Rockcress is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. The plant's attractive flowers and contrasting foliage make it a popular choice for adding color and texture to garden beds, borders, and rock gardens. However, the plant is also known for its medicinal properties. The Cheyenne people of North America used the roots of Boechera pendulina as a poultice to treat skin sores and other skin problems.
Light Requirements
The Boechera pendulina requires ample sunlight to grow. This plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight during the day.
Temperature Requirements
The Boechera pendulina grows well in cool to moderate temperatures, and it can tolerate freezing temperatures as well. However, in prolonged periods of high heat, this plant may show signs of stress such as wilting and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
The Boechera pendulina prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil, and it grows well in nutrient-rich soils with pH ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. This plant does not thrive in soils that are overly saturated or compacted.
Watering Requirements
The Boechera pendulina does not require frequent watering, and it can tolerate periods of drought. However, it is crucial to ensure that the soil is adequately moist, especially during the first year of growth. The soil should be watered deeply once a week or as needed.
Fertilizer Requirements
The Boechera pendulina does not require heavy fertilization, but it does benefit from occasional feeding during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used every three to four months, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Cultivation Methods for Boechera pendulina
Boechera pendulina thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a sunny location. Plant the seedlings in the early spring or in early autumn to ensure the plant establishes a sturdy root system.
Watering Needs for Boechera pendulina
Boechera pendulina requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot, dry days. Water the plant deeply but not excessively, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization of Boechera pendulina
Boechera pendulina is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much feeding. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring can help boost plant growth and flower production.
Pruning of Boechera pendulina
Boechera pendulina hardly needs pruning, but deadheading faded flowers can stimulate the growth of new flowers and prevent the plant from self-seeding too much. Cut off dead or broken branches at the base of the plant to improve its overall appearance.
Propagation of Boechera pendulina (Greene) W.A. Weber
Boechera pendulina (Greene) W.A. Weber, commonly known as foothills rockcress, can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the easiest method of propagation for Boechera pendulina. The seeds mature in mid to late summer and can be collected once the seedpods are dry. The collected seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until the next growing season. Before planting, the seeds should be stratified at a temperature of around 40°F to 45°F for three to four weeks in a moist medium to simulate winter. In the spring, the seeds can be sown directly in the garden, and the seedlings should appear within two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Boechera pendulina can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from established plants in spring or autumn. The cuttings should be approximately four inches long with at least two leaves and one or two leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in perlite or vermiculite, water thoroughly, and cover with a plastic bag. The bag should be removed once the cuttings begin to grow roots, usually within one to two months.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is the best method to propagate large Boechera pendulina clumps. The division should be made in spring or autumn when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully dig up the entire plant and remove any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and stems. Using a sharp knife or garden spade, carefully divide the plant into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy stem and root system. Replant the divided sections at the same depth as the original plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Boechera pendulina (Greene) W.A. Weber
Boechera pendulina (Greene) W.A. Weber, commonly known as Rockcress, is a hardy plant that is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management can help maintain healthy Boechera pendulina plant populations.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Boechera pendulina is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can lead to significant defoliation and weakened plant health. It is important to monitor for powdery mildew and manage it promptly. Fungi and root rot can also affect Boechera pendulina. Fungal infections can cause wilting, defoliation, and stunted growth. Root rot can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, and other factors that lead to root damage.
Pest Management
Boechera pendulina is often attractive to aphids, spider mites, and other small insects. Gardeners can manage pests by using insecticidal soaps and oils, or by introducing natural predators that eat the pests. It is important to regularly monitor plants for signs of infestation and act promptly to prevent pest populations from becoming established.
Disease Management
Regular plant maintenance can prevent some diseases by keeping plants healthy and strong. Cultural practices such as crop rotation, proper watering, and fertilization can help to prevent fungal infections and other diseases. Fungi and root rot can also be managed by removing affected plant material and avoiding overwatering. Mildew can be treated with fungicides. However, it is important to note that it is better to prevent the disease from occurring than to try to manage it once it has occurred.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management for Boechera pendulina is essential to maintaining healthy plants. Prompt action in the face of disease or pest infestations is critical to preventing infection and protecting the plant population. With careful management and regular monitoring, gardeners can enjoy healthy, beautiful Boechera pendulina plants.
