Draba longipes Raup
Draba longipes Raup is a plant species that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, commonly known as the mustard family. It is native to North America, particularly in the western United States, including Alaska, California, and Oregon.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as long-stalked draba or Raup's draba. Other regional common names are also used, including arctic whitlow-grass and tundra draba.
Appearance
The long-stalked draba is a perennial herbaceous plant that usually grows up to 1–5 cm tall with tiny leaves that grow alternate to each other. This plant produces many branches, which have hairs that are white in color. The flowers are white and star-shaped with 4 petals and 4 sepals and grow in dense terminal clusters. The fruit is a round, flattened, and greyish-green capsule with black oval seeds.
Uses
The long-stalked draba is an important plant in the tundra ecosystem, as it provides a food source for many herbivores, such as caribou, muskoxen, and hares. It is also a traditional medicine used by Alaskan natives to treat rheumatism, fever, and sore throats. In addition, the long-stalked draba is used for ecological studies to examine the effects of climate change on tundra vegetation.
Light Requirements
Draba longipes Raup is a sun-loving plant and grows best under full sun conditions. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Inadequate sunlight exposure may cause stunted growth or even plant death.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to cold climatic conditions, and it prefers cool temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Draba longipes Raup is between 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate frost and has been observed to survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Extremely hot temperatures can also stress the plant, leading to reduced growth rates or even wilting.
Soil Requirements
Draba longipes Raup thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range between 6.0 to 7.5, and it should be slightly acidic to neutral. Additionally, the soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant can also tolerate sandy or rocky soil types but may require more frequent watering. Excessive soil moisture can lead to root rot and other diseases that may affect plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Draba longipes Raup is a rare alpine plant that requires special cultivation methods. It grows well in well-drained soil with high organic matter content and good water retention capabilities. The best time to plant Draba longipes Raup is in early spring, after the frost has disappeared from the ground, or in late autumn, before the winter sets in.
The plant is best propagated from seed, which should be sown in a pot or tray filled with well-drained soil. The seeds should be kept moist and warm until germination, which may take up to six weeks, depending on the temperature and moisture levels.
Watering Needs
Draba longipes Raup requires regular watering, particularly during its growing season, which is between spring and early summer. The plant prefers well-drained soil, which should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid scorching of the leaves, which can occur if the plant is watered during the hottest parts of the day.
Fertilization
Draba longipes Raup requires regular fertilization during its growing season to maintain healthy growth and good foliage. A balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for the plant. The fertilization should be done once a month during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and dosage.
Pruning
Draba longipes Raup does not require much pruning. However, some light trimming may be necessary to help maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant season, which is typically in late autumn or early winter. Any diseased or dead branches should be removed, and the plant should be reshaped by removing any unwanted growth.
Propagation of Draba longipes Raup
Draba longipes Raup is a perennial herb that belongs to the mustard family. It is commonly known as long-stalked whitlow-grass and is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Propagation of Draba longipes Raup can be done through different methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Draba longipes Raup produces seeds that can be collected and used to propagate new plants. The seeds are small and can be collected once they are fully mature. It is advisable to collect the seeds when the seed pods start to dry, and the seeds are black or brown in color. After collection, the seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready for planting.
Propagation from seeds can be done indoors or outdoors. Sow the seeds in pots or containers filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. Place the container in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Germination should occur within two to three weeks, after which the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Vegetative propagation
Propagation of Draba longipes Raup through vegetative means involves using cuttings or division. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from healthy plants. Use a sharp, sterile knife to cut a stem from the plant, and make the cut just below a node. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Place the pot in a bright but indirect light location and keep the soil moist. Once roots have developed, transplant the new plant to its permanent location.
Division is another means of vegetative propagation of Draba longipes Raup. Divide plants in the spring before new growth begins. Dig up the entire plant, and carefully separate the root clumps with a sharp, sterile knife. Each new division should have several healthy stems and roots. Replant each new division in well-draining soil and water it well. Ensure that the newly divided plants are kept moist until new growth emerges.
Disease and Pest Management for Draba longipes Raup
Draba longipes Raup, commonly known as alpine whitlowgrass, is a tiny alpine plant that is highly susceptible to diseases and pests. Effective management practices are necessary to minimize the potential for plant damage caused by these threats. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
The fungal disease, black rot, is a common problem for Draba longipes Raup. Symptoms of black rot include dark spots on leaves, stem cankers, and even death of the plant. The disease spreads easily through infected soil and contaminated garden tools.
To manage black rot, remove infected plants immediately and destroy them, do not put them on the compost pile. Apply fungicides, like copper-based solutions, to the remaining plants, particularly during the growing season. Avoid watering the foliage, and water only at the base of the plant to reduce the chances of fungal spores splashing onto the leaves.
Pests
Several insect pests can attack Draba longipes Raup. Aphids are the most common insects that affect this plant. They feed on sap, causing the leaves to curl, yellow, and drop. They also attract ants, which can spread them to other plants.
To manage aphids, spray a strong stream of water on the plant leaves to dislodge them. You can also apply insecticidal soap, or neem oil, diluted with water, to the plants. Encouraging the presence of natural predators, like ladybugs and lacewings, can help control aphids.
Spider mites are also a common problem for Draba longipes Raup, causing yellow speckled leaves and webbing on the plant. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions, so providing adequate moisture to the plant can prevent infestation.
To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water and apply insecticidal soap. You can also introduce predatory mites that feed on spider mites, to control their population.
Regular monitoring and prompt response to diseases and pests can help maintain the health and vigor of Draba longipes Raup. By following these management practices, you can ensure that this beautiful alpine plant thrives in your garden.
