Origin
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is a species of plant in the mustard family, Brassicaceae. It is native to the alpine regions of northern Europe and Asia, including Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, and Mongolia.
Common Names
Draba palanderiana is commonly known as Palander's Whitlowgrass or Palander's Draba.
Uses
Draba palanderiana is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive appearance. It also has some medicinal properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, the root of a related species, Draba nemorosa, is used to treat coughs, fever and as a sedative.
General Appearance
Draba palanderiana is a low-growing evergreen perennial that grows in dense mats. It has tiny, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer on short, slender stalks. The leaves are typically spoon-shaped and form a rosette at ground level. They are dark green in color and covered in fine hairs.
Light Requirements
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. requires full sun for optimal growth. This plant cannot tolerate shade or partial shade as it needs direct sunlight to synthesize the energy it requires for proper growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to grow in tough, alpine environments and is known to tolerate sub-freezing temperatures. However, for optimal growth, the recommended temperature range is 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Higher temperatures might lead to heat stress while excessive low temperatures can damage the plant tissue.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives best in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients, and that is neither too alkaline nor too acidic. It prefers soil that is more on the acidic side, with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate slightly dry soils but not waterlogged soils. In addition, the plant does well in rocky soil types and prefers to grow in areas with a good airflow to prevent the growth of fungi and molds.
Cultivation methods
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is a perennial plant and is well adapted to grow in rocky, alpine habitats. It requires well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. To cultivate, you can start by sowing the seeds in a pot or directly in the ground in early spring, or you can propagate it through stem cuttings or division in late spring or early fall.
Watering needs
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. prefers moderate to moist soils. It needs consistent watering, particularly during the growing season, to ensure that the soil stays moist. You can water the plant at the base, in the morning, or in the evening. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Fertilization
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. grows well without the need for fertilizers. However, you can give it a boost in spring and early fall with slow-release fertilizers rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as decomposed manure or worm castings to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Draba palanderiana Kjellm. However, removing any dead or diseased leaves and stems regularly can enhance the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of any diseases. Cutting back the plant after flowering can also promote new growth and enhance the plant's volume and fullness.
Propagation of Draba palanderiana Kjellm.
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is commonly known as Palander's draba and is native to the Russian Far East and Japan.
The following are some of the most common methods of propagating Draba palanderiana Kjellm.:
Seed Propagation
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. can be propagated by seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in the early spring or early autumn. The seeds need to be sown in a well-drained seedbed and lightly covered with soil. The optimum temperature for germination is around 20°C. The seeds will usually germinate in around 3-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. can also be propagated by vegetative means. This can be achieved through division or by taking cuttings. Division is best done in the spring or the autumn. Cuttings should be taken in the early summer and treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained potting mix.
It is important to note that Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is a slow-growing plant and may take a few years to establish itself. However, once established, it is a hardy plant that requires little care.
Disease Management
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is susceptible to various fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. These diseases can cause stunted growth, discoloration, and ultimately plant death. The best way to manage fungal diseases is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Planting resistant cultivars, avoiding overhead watering, and maintaining good air circulation can help prevent fungal diseases. If fungal diseases do occur, they can usually be treated with fungicides such as copper-based products or neem oil. It’s important to read and follow all instructions and safety precautions provided by the manufacturer.
Pest Management
Draba palanderiana Kjellm. is susceptible to various pests including aphids, slugs, and snails. Aphids can cause distorted growth and can also transmit viruses to the plant. Slugs and snails can damage the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage these pests, monitor your plants regularly and take action at the first sign of infestation. You can physically remove pests by hand or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids. For slugs and snails, create physical barriers such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the plant to prevent them from reaching it. Chemical pesticides can also be used as a last resort.
