Origin
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun is a species of plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. This particular variety is endemic to the Columbia River Basin in British Columbia, Canada and the United States.
Common Names
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun does not have a widely accepted common name. However, it is sometimes referred to as "Columbia Draba".
General Appearance
The plant typically grows to be about two to four inches in height and forms dense cushions. The leaves of the plant are small and linear in shape, ranging from 2-10mm long. This variety is distinguished by its glabrous, or hairless, leaves. The plant produces a spike of bright yellow flowers that emerge from the center of the cushion-like growth habit.
Uses
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun is not known to have any significant uses. However, it is important in its natural ecosystem as it provides food and habitat for native insect populations.
Light Requirements
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to maintain its growth. Lack of sunlight can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in cool to cold temperatures. It cannot tolerate extreme heat and humidity, especially during the summer months. The ideal temperature range for Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun is between 15 to 20°C (60 to 70°F). Temperatures above 25°C (77°F) can cause the plant to suffer heat stress.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining, sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH of 6.0 to 7.0). It cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Organic matter such as compost and peat moss can be added to the soil to improve its nutrient content. Fertilizers should be applied sparingly as the plant is sensitive to high levels of nitrogen.
Cultivation Methods
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is ideal to cultivate the plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant can be grown in pots or directly in the ground. If grown in pots, ensure that they are large enough for root growth.
Watering Needs
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun requires moderate watering. The plants should not be allowed to dry out completely, but overwatering should be avoided. It is recommended to water the plants frequently but in small amounts to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun requires fertilization regularly to grow healthy and robust. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, applied every two to three weeks. The fertilizer should be applied only to wet soil to avoid damaging the roots.
Pruning
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun requires minimal pruning. Deadheading of the plant can encourage new growth. If the plant becomes overgrown, it can be trimmed back in early spring. However, pruning should be done cautiously to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation Methods for Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun
Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun is a perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers that is native to western North America. It is commonly called smooth-leaf draba or rockcress. This plant can be propagated by seed or division.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Draba ramosissima is by seed. The plant produces numerous seeds in small capsules that can be collected when they turn brown. The seeds should be sown in early spring in a well-drained soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of around 3 mm and kept moist until germination occurs, which can take two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or a larger container.
Propagation by Division
Draba ramosissima can also be propagated by division. This can be done in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the crown and roots into smaller pieces. Each division should have several stems and a healthy root system. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil and water well. It may take several weeks for the divisions to establish new roots, so be patient.
Propagation of Draba ramosissima is relatively easy, and both methods are effective. However, if propagating by seed, it is important to ensure the seeds are from a reliable source, as some varieties of Draba ramosissima can hybridize and produce offspring with characteristics different from the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun
The Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun, also known as Smoothleaf whitlow-grass, is a hardy perennial plant that is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, like most plants, it is not completely free of problems. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding the plants and water them early in the day, allowing plenty of time for the leaves to dry before nightfall. Remove and destroy any infected leaves or plants that cannot be saved. You can also use fungicides that contain sulfur or copper to prevent powdery mildew.
2. Downy Mildew: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as yellow or brown spots on the upper surface of the leaves, with fuzzy gray or purple growth on the underside. To manage downy mildew, remove and destroy any infected leaves or plants that cannot be saved. You can also use fungicides that contain copper to prevent downy mildew.
Pests
1. Aphids: These are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and deformation. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off the leaves. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control the aphids. In severe cases, you can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids.
2. Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. They also produce webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off the leaves. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control spider mites. In severe cases, you can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage spider mites.
In conclusion, Draba ramosissima Desv. var. glabrifolia E.L. Braun is a resilient plant that can withstand most challenges. However, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of pest or disease infestations and take immediate action to manage them before they become a nuisance.
