Origin
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins, also known as the Aleutian cress, grows in the Aleutian archipelago that spans over 1,200 kilometers in the Bering Sea. It is native to the rocky, sandy, and gravelly shorelines and outcroppings of the Aleutian Islands, Alaska, and the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia.
Common Names
The Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins has several common names, including Aleutian cress, humble braya, and Aleutian lowland cress.
Uses
The Aleutian cress has been used by the Aleut people, indigenous to the Aleutian Islands, as a traditional food and medicine for centuries. They would gather the plant during the summer months and eat it raw or boiled. The plant is known to be high in vitamin C, which made it a valuable addition to the Aleut diet, especially during the long, dark winter months. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat stomach ailments and as a remedy for colds and coughs.
Today, the Aleutian cress is still eaten by the Aleut people and is also used as a wild edible by locals in Alaska. The plant is also used in landscaping and rock gardening due to its hardiness and unique appearance.
General Appearance
The Aleutian cress is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb that grows up to 10 cm tall and 30 cm wide. The plant has a woody stem and fleshy, succulent leaves that are oval-shaped with spatulated tips and measure 1-3 cm in length. The leaves are green or purplish in color and have a waxy coating that helps protect the plant from sea spray. The small, white or pink flowers appear in late spring to early summer and are held in tight clusters at the top of the stem. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained, rocky soil.
Light Requirements
Braya humilis ssp. ventosa typically requires full sun exposure to thrive. The plant can tolerate some shade, but flowering may be reduced in shaded areas. It is important to provide adequate light to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Braya humilis ssp. ventosa is native to Arctic tundra regions and is adapted to cold temperatures. The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, from -40°C to 20°C. However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. The plant can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures, making it an ideal plant for colder climates.
Soil Requirements
Braya humilis ssp. ventosa grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. However, the plant prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as the plant can be sensitive to excessive moisture. Adequate drainage is essential for healthy growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins can be grown in pots or directly in the soil. It prefers well-draining soil and requires full sun exposure for best growth.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering, Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. It's best to water the plant deeply once a week, but this frequency may need to be adjusted based on the weather and soil conditions in your area.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins is not necessary, but it can help to promote healthier growth. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the active growing season.
Pruning
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. ssp. ventosa Rollins does not require regular pruning, but damaged or dead foliage should be removed promptly. This can be done at any time of the year, but it's best to avoid pruning during the winter months when the plant is typically dormant.
Propagation of Braya humilis ssp. ventosa
Braya humilis ssp. ventosa can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Braya humilis ssp. ventosa can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors. To germinate the seeds, they should be stratified for 6 to 8 weeks in the refrigerator prior to planting. Once stratified, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination can take 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are taken from healthy, mature Braya humilis ssp. ventosa plants, usually in the spring or summer. A 4- to 6-inch stem cutting with at least two nodes is taken and the lower leaves are removed. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight during the rooting process, which can take up to 6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Braya humilis ssp. ventosa
Braya humilis ssp. ventosa Rollins, commonly known as Arctic Rockcress, is a small perennial herbaceous plant native to Arctic regions. As with any plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can have a negative impact on its growth and survival. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and take measures to manage them effectively.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Braya humilis ssp. ventosa is root rot caused by fungal pathogens such as Pythium and Phytophthora. These pathogens thrive in waterlogged soil and can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and root decay. To manage this disease, it is crucial to ensure good drainage by planting the rockcress in well-draining soil. Additionally, avoid overwatering the plant, especially in humid weather conditions.
Another common fungal disease that affects the Arctic Rockcress is powdery mildew. This disease manifests as a white powdery substance on the surface of the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize, leading to stunted growth and weakened immune systems. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to prune and discard affected parts of the plant. Also, provide adequate air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoiding overcrowding.
Common pests
The Arctic Rockcress is susceptible to various pests, with aphids and spider mites being the most common. These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage aphids and spider mites, regular monitoring of plants is essential. If detected, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Additionally, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on aphids and spider mites.
In conclusion, Braya humilis ssp. ventosa Rollins is a remarkable plant that requires proper management to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests. Timely detection and implementation of appropriate control measures are crucial to protect the plant from damage and ensure its optimal growth and development.
