Overview
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. americana (Hook.) Boivin, commonly known as the American feltwort, is a low-growing flowering plant that belongs to the mustard family, Brassicaceae. It is native to the Arctic regions of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and Greenland.
Description
The American feltwort is a perennial plant that typically grows up to 5 to 20 cm tall with a basal rosette of leaves. It has small roundish leaves that are gray-green and covered with short stiff hairs giving it felt-like texturing. The plant produces a small white or cream-colored 4-petaled flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late spring to early summer. They are typically found growing in gravelly or rocky soil in arctic and alpine habitats.
Common Names
The American feltwort is commonly called Arctic rockcress, Arctic rockwort, or grey rockcress.
Uses
Indigenous people in Alaska have traditionally used the roots of the plant as a food source and the leaves for medicinal purposes such as treating headaches. It is primarily used as a decorative plant in rock gardens or container gardening. Additionally, the plant is occasionally used as a model organism in plant science research due to its hardiness and adaptability to extreme environments.
Growth Conditions for Braya humilis var. americana
Light Requirements: Braya humilis var. americana requires full sunlight for its growth. It is adapted to and naturally found in open tundra habitats that have an extended period of continuous daylight during the summer months.
Temperature Requirements: Braya humilis var. americana is a cold-loving plant that thrives in cool temperatures. Its ideal temperature range for growth is between 5-15°C (41-59°F), and it can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) without damage.
Soil Requirements: Braya humilis var. americana can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It is commonly found growing on rocky or gravelly soils in alpine regions.
Moisture Requirements: Braya humilis var. americana does not require high amounts of moisture. It can survive in dry conditions, but moderate moisture levels are preferred for its growth. Overly wet soil can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Nutrient Requirements: Braya humilis var. americana is adapted to low-nutrient environments, and it does not require high amounts of nutrients for its growth. However, it does benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer to boost its growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. americana (Hook.) Boivin is a small, cold-hardy plant that is native to Arctic regions. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, gravelly, and loamy soils. The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
When cultivating Braya humilis, ensure that the plant is grown in an open area with plenty of sunlight or partially shaded areas in hotter climates. The plant requires continuous light but can tolerate some shade during the day.
Watering Needs
Given that Braya humilis is a cold-hardy plant native to Arctic regions, it has low to medium water needs. The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate drought conditions momentarily. One way to ensure adequate moisture is by mulching the soil around the plant during periods of low precipitation.
Watering should not be too frequent to prevent root rot. In general, a moderate amount of water 1-2 times per week during the growing season is sufficient to keep the plant hydrated.
Fertilization
Braya humilis requires minimal fertilization. An annual application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring is sufficient. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth and undesirable changes to the plant's structure, so fertilize the plant lightly.
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer, which contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, will help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Braya humilis to thrive fully. Still, it helps control the plant's shape and size and encourage growth. Prune after the plant has finished flowering to allow it to direct its energy towards growth.
Cut the plant's stem about a quarter of an inch above the topmost leaf pair or node using sharp, clean scissors or garden pruners. This will encourage the plant to put on new growth and produce new blooms in the following season.
Propagation of Braya humilis var. americana
Braya humilis var. americana, also known as American dwarfed cress, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to arctic and subarctic regions of North America such as Canada, Greenland, and Alaska. As a cold-hardy plant, it is commonly grown in rock gardens and alpine house habitats. Propagation of the plant can be done through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Braya humilis var. americana by seeds is the fastest and easiest method. Collect mature seeds during the period between early summer and fall when the seedpods turn brown. Once collected, sow the seeds directly into the soil or into seed trays. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and water gently. Germination will typically occur within two to four weeks under cool, moist conditions. Transplant the seedlings when they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Braya humilis var. americana by cuttings can be done during spring or fall. Take cuttings of around 4 inches long from the parent plant, making sure that it has some healthy leaves at the top. Remove any lower leaves from the cutting to prevent dehydration. Dip the end in rooting hormone powder and plant it into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the cutting moist and in shaded conditions. After several weeks, it will start to root and can be transplanted to a larger container or directly in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Braya humilis var. americana by division is best done in spring or fall. Dig up the parent plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Each division must have a portion of the root system and some leaves. Plant the divisions in a prepared hole with a well-draining soil mixture and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist until new growth emerges, usually within several weeks to a month.
Disease and Pest Management of Braya humilis var. americana
Braya humilis var. americana is a type of a herbaceous plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. The plant is native to Arctic regions in North America and is ideal for growing in rock gardens and alpine areas. However, like any other plant, it is prone to pests and diseases. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Black spot
Black spot is a fungal disease that causes circular black spots on leaves and stems, leading to leaf drop and stunted plant growth. To manage black spot, remove infected leaves and stems and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering, which encourages the spread of the fungus. Also, ensure that the plant is well-ventilated and receives enough sunlight.
2. Downy mildew
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes yellow patches on the upper surface of leaves and a greyish-white fungal growth on the lower surface. The affected leaves eventually die and drop, leaving the plant weakened. To manage downy mildew, remove infected leaves and stems and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and ensure the plant is well-ventilated to reduce humidity.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from leaves and stems, leading to yellowing of leaves and stunted plant growth. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
2. Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of various species of moths and feed on the stems of the plant at or near the soil level, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, apply a barrier of diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
By following these disease and pest management measures, you can grow healthy and beautiful Braya humilis var. americana plants.
