Origin
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz, commonly known as Norway Whitlowgrass, can be found in the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a member of the Brassicaceae or crucifer family of plants and is a perennial herb that grows in cold, damp environments.
Common Names
Norway Whitlowgrass is known by several common names, including hebecarp whitlowgrass, Lindberg's whitlowgrass, and Norway Draba. The name ‘whitlowgrass’ is a reference to the plant's traditional use for treating whitlows, or small painful sores on the fingers caused by bacterial infection.
Uses
Norway Whitlowgrass has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating skin ailments such as burns and ulcers, as well as scurvy, jaundice, and rheumatism. The plant's leaves, stems, and flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish for dishes. It is also used in the perfume and cosmetics industries for its pleasant scent.
General Appearance
Norway Whitlowgrass is a small perennial herb that grows up to 10 cm in height. It has basal leaves that are oval to spatula-shaped, and its stem leaves are smaller and lance-shaped. The plant produces small white and yellow flowers that bloom from June to August. Its fruit is a small pod that contains seeds. Norway Whitlowgrass prefers to grow in damp, rocky, and sandy soils in cold, alpine regions.
Light Requirements
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It prefers bright light, although it can tolerate some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in cool to cold temperatures and is typically found growing in rocky alpine environments. In summer, it can tolerate temperatures up to 20°C, but in winter it can survive temperatures as low as -20°C.
Soil Requirements
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz prefers well-draining soils that are moist but not water-logged. It grows best in nutrient-rich soils and benefits from the addition of organic matter such as compost. It can also tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 4.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation Methods for Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz is a low-growing, perennial plant that prefers well-drained soil and a cool climate. It is relatively easy to cultivate, and with proper care, can thrive in a range of growing conditions.
When planting Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and fertile. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It should be placed in a location with full sun to partial shade exposure.
Watering Needs for Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz requires regular watering, especially during the summer months. It is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. In hot and dry weather, it may be necessary to water more often.
Fertilization for Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. Fertilizar should be applied in the spring and summer months.
A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer can be used, or a slow-release granular fertilizer can be added to the soil. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate amount to apply based on the size of the plant.
Pruning for Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz does not required pruning. However, deadheading can be beneficial to promote the continuing blooming through the growing season.
Deadheading helps remove the spent flowers, which can help promote new growth and flowering. It also helps improve the overall appearance of the plant.
Propagation methods of Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz is a low-growing, alpine plant that is native to Norway, Sweden, and Finland. It is a hardy plant that is capable of growing in cold and rocky environments. The propagation of this plant can be accomplished through various methods including:
Seed propagation:
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa. Seeds can be collected from mature plants during the summer months. Once collected, the seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until planting. To plant the seeds, prepare a well-draining soil mixture and plant the seeds at a shallow depth. The seeds should germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
Division:
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa can also be propagated through division. This method involves the separation of the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in a different location. Division is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. To divide the plant, carefully dig up the entire plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mixture.
Cuttings:
Cuttings can be taken from Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa to propagate new plants. The cuttings should be taken in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and cut a 2-3 inch section from the tip of the plant. Remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist until the cutting has rooted.
Disease Management
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz is not generally susceptible to many diseases; however, it may occasionally become infected with fungal or bacterial infections. The most common diseases that may affect the plant are:
- Leaf spots: Caused by fungi, these spots appear as small brown or black dots on the leaves. Management includes removing and destroying affected plant parts and improving air circulation around the plant.
- Root rots: Caused by soil-borne fungi, this disease causes the roots to rot and can ultimately kill the plant. Proper drainage and avoiding overwatering can help prevent root rot.
- Virus diseases: May cause mottled or yellowed leaves and stunted growth. There is no cure for virus diseases, and infected plants should be removed to prevent spread.
To prevent the occurrence of diseases, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene and pruning infected plant parts in a timely manner. Fungicides or bactericides may be used to manage some fungal and bacterial infections but should be used with caution and as directed.
Pest Management
Draba norvegica Gunn. var. hebecarpa (Lindbl.) O.E. Schulz may also become infested with several pests that can cause damage to the plant. The most common pests that may affect the plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to curl and turn yellow. Management includes spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These larvae feed on plant stems, often cutting them near the base and causing the plant to wilt and die. Management includes handpicking the larvae and applying a chemical pesticide.
- Leafhoppers: These insects feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Management includes applying an insecticide or using homemade remedies like garlic or hot pepper spray.
To prevent pest infestations, it is essential to monitor the plant regularly and take quick action to control pests when detected. Good cultural practices like removing weeds and maintaining proper plant spacing can also help prevent pest infestations.
