Origin
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. arctica (Böcher) Rollins, also known as arctic rockcress, is a small flowering plant that is native to the Arctic region, specifically in Northern Canada, Alaska, and Greenland. It is mainly found in rocky areas and gravelly soils, especially in high-altitude regions.
Common Names
Aside from its scientific name and arctic rockcress, this plant is also known by several other common names depending on the region, including low rockcress, dwarf white rockcress, and Arctic mustard.
Uses
While not widely used in modern times, the indigenous people of the Arctic region have utilized Braya humilis in the past for a variety of purposes. The Inuit people have used it as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as coughs and colds. The plant has also been eaten as a vegetable, as it has high nutritional value and is rich in Vitamin C. Its seeds have been used as a seasoning in cooking.
General Appearance
Braya humilis is a small plant, growing up to only 2-10 cm in height. It has green, succulent leaves that form a basal rosette and are densely packed near the ground. The plant produces small white flowers that form a cluster at the top of a thin, green stem. The flowering season of this plant is from June to August. Its small size and white flowers make it an attractive plant in rock gardens and alpine plantings.
Light Requirements
Braya humilis ssp. arctica typically grows in areas that receive direct sunlight for most of the day. However, it can also grow in areas where the sunlight is partially or fully blocked by other vegetation. It is adapted to withstand the harsh Arctic environment where sunlight is limited during the winter season.
Temperature Requirements
Braya humilis ssp. arctica is a cold-adapted plant that thrives in low temperatures. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and as high as 10°C (50°F). In the Arctic, the plant's growth is limited to the summer season when the temperatures consistently stay above freezing.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers to grow in well-drained mineral soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can also grow in soils that are rocky or gravelly. The soil pH should be slightly acidic or neutral. The plant is adapted to withstand the extreme environmental conditions in the Arctic, making it tolerant of low nutrient availability and high salinity levels in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Braya humilis ssp. arctica is a hardy plant, and it can grow in various soils, including sandy soils, and rocky areas. It is an alpine plant that requires full sun to grow well.
The ideal time to propagate Braya humilis ssp. arctica is in the fall, just before the ground freezes. To grow this plant, sow seeds in a well-draining soil mixture in seed trays, and keep them in a cool greenhouse until mid-spring the following year.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, and it is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged. To promote healthy growth, water Braya humilis ssp. arctica thoroughly. However, allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, Braya humilis ssp. Arctic requires fertilization with a well-balanced fertilizer every two weeks throughout the growing season. Fertilize early in the morning when there is no sunshine, and water the plant after fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Braya humilis ssp. arctica, and it is best to leave the stems as they are. However, if you notice any dead leaves or branches, remove them immediately to prevent fungal infections.
Propagation of Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. arctica (Böcher) Rollins
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. arctica (Böcher) Rollins, also known as Arctic rockcress, is a hardy perennial plant found in Arctic regions. It is a low-growing plant with white flowers and succulent leaves that grows in moist, rocky habitats. Propagation of this plant can be done through seed sowing or vegetative propagation.
Seed sowing
Seed sowing is the most common method of propagating Braya humilis ssp. arctica. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring when the soil is moist, and the temperature is cool. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil. The pot should be placed in a cool and bright location until the seeds germinate, which usually takes around two to three weeks.
Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be transplanted into individual pots. The pots should be kept in a cool and bright location until the seedlings have developed strong roots and leaves. The seedlings are ready for planting outdoors during the spring after the last frost.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Braya humilis ssp. arctica can be done through stem cuttings or division.
To propagate through stem cuttings, select stem cuttings that are about four inches long and have several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining potting mix, and keep the soil moist until the plant roots and new leaves develop. The newly propagated plants can be transplanted outdoors during the spring after the last frost.
Division of mature plants can also be done to propagate Braya humilis ssp. arctica. In the springtime, carefully dig up the root ball and separate the individual plant sections. Replant the divided sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plants have established new roots. The newly propagated plants can be transplanted outdoors during the spring after the last frost.
Disease and Pest Management for Braya humilis ssp. arctica (Böcher) Rollins
Braya humilis ssp. arctica is a hardy plant that grows in harsh environments, but it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases Affecting Braya humilis ssp. arctica
Black rot: This fungal disease can cause black streaks on the leaves and stems of the plant, along with wilting and yellowing. It is most commonly caused by wet conditions and poor airflow. To manage it, remove infected stems and leaves and spray with a fungicide.
Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that creates a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and leaf drop. To manage it, increase air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and spray with a fungicide.
Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the plant's roots, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and eventual death. To manage it, make sure the plant has proper drainage, avoid over-watering, and remove infected plants to prevent further spread.
Pests Affecting Braya humilis ssp. arctica
Aphids: These small insects can attack the plant's leaves and stems, causing curling and yellowing. They can also spread diseases. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Snails and slugs: These mollusks are attracted to the plant's leaves and can cause extensive damage by eating holes in them. To manage them, remove any debris and hiding places around the plant, and use slug bait or traps.
Spider mites: These tiny insects can create a web on the plant's leaves, leading to yellowing and stunted growth. To manage them, spray the plant with water to remove any webbing, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By being proactive with disease and pest management, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Braya humilis ssp. arctica plants.
