Overview
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. leiocarpa (Trautv.) Fern. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is a small perennial plant that is native to the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America and Asia.
Common Names
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. leiocarpa (Trautv.) Fern. is commonly known as low braya and smooth-fruited braya.
Uses
The low braya is an important species of plant for the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions as it serves as a vital source of food for a range of Arctic wildlife such as caribou and muskoxen. Additionally, the plant's leaves are used to treat illnesses such as colds and coughs by the Inuit people who inhabit the region.
General Appearance
The Braya humilis plant is a small perennial that grows to around 5 to 15 centimeters in height. The plant has a white or pinkish flower head and is known for its smooth, waxy leaves that are tightly packed around its stem. The smooth-fruited braya produces small seed pods that are typically oval-shaped and brown in color.
Light Requirements
Braya humilis var. leiocarpa typically grows in full sun to partial shade environments. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
Braya humilis var. leiocarpa is adapted to grow in harsh environments with cool to cold temperatures. It prefers temperatures that range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) during the growing season and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) during the winter dormancy period.
Soil Requirements
Braya humilis var. leiocarpa needs well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It grows well in nutrient-poor soils, including rock outcrops, talus slopes, gravelly soils and other areas with thin soil cover. In its natural environment, it often grows on rocky or gravelly moraines.
Cultivation Methods
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. leiocarpa (Trautv.) Fern. is a cold-hardy plant that usually grows in the Arctic and subarctic regions. It prefers well-draining soils with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.0. The plant is best grown using the seedling transplant method, planting the seedlings in early spring or fall. The area should be free from weed and grasses, and the soil well prepared before planting. The plant requires adequate sunlight for its growth and survival.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, to maintain moist soil. However, the plant is susceptible to root rot, so avoid overwatering that leads to waterlogging. The water requirements can reduce during the dormant season, but the soil should not dry out completely.
Fertilization
The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season to enhance its growth. The fertilizer should be adequately diluted, ensuring that it does not cause root burn or damage. The frequency of fertilization should reduce during the dormant season.
Pruning
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. leiocarpa (Trautv.) Fern does not require frequent pruning. However, pruning can be necessary if the plant becomes overly bushy and leggy. The best time to prune is during the dormant season by removing the dead or damaged branches. Pruning can encourage growth and development, resulting in thicker foliage and more blooms.
Propagation of Braya humilis var. leiocarpa
Braya humilis var. leiocarpa can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation through seeds
The easiest method of propagation for Braya humilis var. leiocarpa is through seeds. The seeds are small and should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a container with good drainage. The seeds should be barely covered with soil and placed in a location with bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. The ideal temperature for germination is between 15-20°C. Germination can take anywhere from 3-8 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Propagation through vegetative means involves taking cuttings from healthy parent plants. In the case of Braya humilis var. leiocarpa, this can be done in the spring when new growth begins. The cuttings should be taken from non-flowering stems and should be at least 8cm in length. They should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a location with bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Propagation through cuttings can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks depending on the environmental conditions.
Disease Management
Braya humilis var. leiocarpa is susceptible to several diseases such as fungal leaf spots and powdery mildew. To manage fungal leaf spots, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be used for severe cases. The use of resistant cultivars is also a preventive measure for fungal leaf spots. For powdery mildew, cultural practices such as proper spacing of plants and avoiding overhead irrigation can help reduce the incidence. Fungicides can also be applied to manage severe powdery mildew infections.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can affect Braya humilis var. leiocarpa include aphids, caterpillars, and weevils. Aphids can be managed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Caterpillars can be manually removed or sprayed with bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide. Weevils can be prevented by keeping the area around the plants free of debris and weeds. Sticky traps can also be used to monitor and capture adult weevils.
It is important to regularly monitor Braya humilis var. leiocarpa for signs of disease or pest infestation. Prompt action can help prevent the spread of diseases and minimize pest damage. Using integrated pest management strategies that combine cultural practices, biological control, and chemical control can also help manage potential disease and pest problems.
