Origin
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. ventosa (Rollins) Boivin is a flowering plant in the mustard family, Brassicaceae. It is native to the Arctic regions of North America, including Alaska, northern Canada, and Greenland.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the dwarf northern rockcress or Arctic rockcress.
Uses
Braya humilis has historically been used as a food source by indigenous peoples of the Arctic. The Inuit would eat the leaves raw or cooked and the seeds were used to make oil. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Appearance
Braya humilis is a small herbaceous perennial plant that grows to a height of 5-15 cm. It has small, dark green leaves that form a basal rosette. The flowers are white and have four petals that are 3-5 mm long. The fruit is a flat, round to oval-shaped capsule that contains many small seeds. The plant grows in rocky soil and is adapted to cold and windy environments.
Light Conditions
Braya humilis var. ventosa typically grows in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. While this plant can tolerate moderate shade, it thrives in direct sunlight, which encourages healthy foliage and flowering. The plant's response to light conditions depends on its developmental stage.
Temperature Requirements
Braya humilis var. ventosa prefers cool climates and can withstand frost. It is well suited to grow in cold and wet soils. This plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 5°C - 23°C (41°F - 73.4°F) but will not survive in very hot or dry environments. The plant prefers moderate temperatures with low humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers mineral-rich soils that are well drained and slightly acidic. Sand, loam or gravel type soils are ideal for the growth of Braya humilis var. ventosa. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged. It is important to note that the plant is vulnerable to disease if grown in waterlogged soils. Soil that is too dry can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. ventosa (Rollins) Boivin is a hardy plant that thrives in the arctic and alpine tundra regions. It is a slow-growing perennial that prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 – 6.5. The most effective cultivation method for this plant is vegetative propagation through rhizomes or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. ventosa (Rollins) Boivin has minimal watering requirements due to its adaptation to the harsh arctic climate. It is important to avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot. Watering should be moderately done, and the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. Drought-resistant measures like mulching can be applied to retain soil moisture.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not vital to the growth of Braya humilis (C.A. Mey.) B.L. Robins. var. ventosa (Rollins) Boivin. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring can enhance plant growth and support blooming. A side dressing of compost or organic matter can be done at the start of the growing season for improved soil fertility and nutrient content.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this plant. However, removing spent flowers can promote continued blooming, and deadheading promotes the growth of new lateral shoots. Avoid cutting the stem of the plant entirely, as it can take a few years for the plant to recover from this type of pruning.
Propagation of Braya humilis var. ventosa
Braya humilis var. ventosa can be propagated through sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Seed propagation is possible for Braya humilis var. ventosa. The plant produces small seeds that should be collected when mature. Prior to sowing, seeds should be stratified for 2-3 months at a temperature of 0-5°C (32-41°F) in moist sand or vermiculite. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a location with adequate light and moisture. Germination should occur in 2-4 weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Braya humilis var. ventosa can be propagated asexually through vegetative propagation. This method involves taking stem cuttings and rooting them in a well-draining soil mix under high humidity and moderate light conditions. Using a rooting hormone may increase the success rate of rooting. This method is easier and quicker than seed propagation but may not produce identical offspring.
Disease and Pest Management for Braya humilis var. ventosa
Braya humilis var. ventosa is a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many diseases or pests. However, it's important to keep an eye out for the following:
Diseases
Black spot: Black spot is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves. If left untreated, it can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off. The best way to manage black spot is to prune infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves. It can lead to defoliation and poor growth if left untreated. To manage rust, prune infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems. They can cause distorted growth and transmit diseases. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are caterpillars that eat the leaves of the plant. They can be identified by their looping motion when they move. To manage cabbage loopers, handpick them off the plant or spray with Bacillus thuringiensis.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage these pests, use a beer trap or sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.
By keeping a close eye on Braya humilis var. ventosa and implementing the proper disease and pest management techniques, you can help ensure a healthy and thriving plant.
