Overview of Chorispora tenella (Pallas) DC.
Chorispora tenella, commonly known as purple mustard or Siberian mustard, is a flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. The species is native to Central Asia, particularly in the regions of Siberia and Russia. Today, it can also be found in several parts of Europe, Asia, and North America where it is cultivated as an ornamental plant and as a shade for crops.
Appearance of Chorispora tenella
The plant grows up to 15-20 cm in height and usually has many branches. It has a taproot system and may have both basal and cauline leaves, with the latter usually being more prominent. The leaves are oblong to obovate and grow up to 6 cm in length. The flowers grow in racemes, with the petals being lavender to violet in color and measuring about 3-6 mm long. The fruit is linear and can grow up to 40mm in length.
Uses of Chorispora tenella
Chorispora tenella has some ornamental value and is grown as a garden plant in many countries. The plant begins flowering in the mid-spring, producing beautiful lavender-colored blooms. The floral display of Chorispora tenella can last up to six weeks, making it an excellent option for gardeners looking to extend the flowering period in their gardens.
The plant's leaves are used in traditional medicine in some parts of Asia for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. The seeds are edible and can be used in salads or added to soups and stews.
Chorispora tenella is also noted for its ecological benefits. It is used as a cover crop, and its deep roots help to improve soil quality and reduce erosion, making it an excellent plant for crops planted in dry soils or nutrient-deficient soils.
Moreover, the plant serves as a source of food for insects such as bees and butterflies, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to promote biodiversity.
Light requirements
Chorispora tenella requires full sun to thrive. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Lack of sunlight may result in stunted growth and poor flowering.
Soil requirements
The plant is adaptable and can grow in different soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be moist, but not too wet, as excess water can cause root rot.
Temperature requirements
Chorispora tenella is cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. It can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 to 9. It prefers cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 25°C, and can tolerate frost. However, it may wilt during periods of extreme heat and drought.
Water requirements
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. During the winter, the plant requires less frequent watering.
Fertilizer requirements
The plant does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it can benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as it can promote leaf growth rather than flowering.
Cultivation methods
Chorispora tenella is a hardy plant that grows easily in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained sandy loam soil. The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, and it is best planted in the early spring or fall.
Watering needs
Chorispora tenella requires moderate watering and prefers consistently moist soil. It can tolerate drought conditions but prefers to be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Chorispora tenella is not a heavy feeder and does not require much fertilization. However, to promote optimal growth, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring and mid-summer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Chorispora tenella does not require frequent pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins. Removing any damaged or diseased branches is also recommended.
Propagation of Chorispora tenella
Chorispora tenella can be propagated through two main methods, which are described below:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Chorispora tenella is through the use of seeds. The seeds of this plant can be easily collected after the flowering period and sown directly into the ground or seed trays. The seeds should be sown in spring or autumn in moist but well-drained soil. It is important to ensure that the seeds are not sown too deeply, as this can cause them to fail to germinate.
Once the seeds have been sown, they should be watered regularly until they germinate. This usually takes around 2-3 weeks, after which the seedlings can be thinned out and replanted into their final positions. Chorispora tenella grows well in full sun and can tolerate a range of soils, but does best in well-drained soil.
Cuttings Propagation
Chorispora tenella can also be propagated through cuttings, although this method is less commonly used. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the mother plant and rooting them in a suitable growing medium. The best time to take cuttings is in spring or early summer.
The cuttings should be around 10cm long and taken from the tips of the stems. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a pot filled with a well-draining growing medium. The cuttings should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and should be placed in a warm, brightly-lit location until they have formed roots.
Once the cuttings have formed roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted out in their final positions.
Disease Management
Chorispora tenella is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can be controlled by spraying the plants with fungicides like sulfur or neem oil. It is essential to maintain good plant hygiene and remove any fallen or infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Chorispora tenella can be affected by various pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. Aphids can be controlled by washing them off the plants with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soaps. Caterpillars can be picked off the plants by hand or treated with insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis. Flea beetles can be controlled with the use of yellow sticky traps or insecticides like pyrethroids. It is important to monitor the plants regularly and take appropriate measures to control the pests before they cause significant damage.
