Origin
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. is a native plant in North America. It is commonly found in the Rocky Mountains, especially in arctic-alpine habitats and rocky slopes.
Common Names
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. is commonly known as Showy Whitlow-grass, Spectacular Whitlow-grass, or simply Draba.
Uses
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant's root extract is used to treat cuts, bruises, and sore throats. Also, the plant is consumed as a food source by wildlife, such as the mountain sheep, elk, and deer.
General Appearance
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. is a perennial herb that grows up to 6 inches tall and forms a basal rosette of linear to oblong leaves. It has white flowers that bloom from May to August. The flowers have four petals, and they form a raceme at the top of the stem. The fruit is a capsule that contains many tiny seeds.
Growth Conditions for Draba Spectabilis Greene Var. Typica C.L. Hitchc.
Light Requirements: Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day but can tolerate shade in the afternoon.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is adapted to cool to moderate temperatures, making it an ideal choice for mountainous regions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -34°C (-30°F) and as high as 30°C (86°F). However, it is important to note that this plant can be damaged by sudden temperature changes, so it is best to avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements: Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows well in rocky or gravelly soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as this plant is susceptible to root rot. It is important to note that this plant does not tolerate saline or alkaline soils.
Cultivation methods
When cultivating Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc., it is crucial to ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight. The ideal location should provide partial to full sunlight for a minimum of six hours each day. The plant thrives better in well-drained soil, which is also rich in organic matter.
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. is a versatile plant that adapts well to various soil types, but the soil must be well aerated to avoid waterlogging. The ideal pH range should be between 6.0 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. The plant is hardy and can tolerate various temperatures, but the optimum temperature range for cultivation is between 45 degrees Fahrenheit to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Watering needs
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. prefers moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant requires watering whenever the top two inches of the soil is dry. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
It is essential to water the plant at the base, avoiding the leaves, to prevent waterlogging, which can cause diseases. Using a well-draining soil will also help to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. does not require a high amount of fertilization, but the application of organic fertilizer in spring and summer will stimulate growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer that contains a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. We recommend applying the fertilizer at half the manufacturer's recommended dose to avoid over-fertilization.
It is crucial to use well-rotted organic matter and compost to enrich the soil with necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc. does not require extensive pruning, but it is essential to remove dead or diseased foliage as soon as they appear. Spring is the ideal time to carry out pruning as the plant is still dormant.
When the plant reaches its flowering stage, it is vital to remove spent flowers to promote more blooms. The removal of faded flowers helps to channel the energy of the plant towards the production of new flowers.
Propagation of Draba Spectabilis Greene var. Typica C.L. Hitchc.
Draba spectabilis Greene var. typica C.L. Hitchc., also known as Showy Draba, can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Draba spectabilis is through seeds. Collect mature seeds when the seed pods turn brown and dry. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until spring. Start the seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date or sow them directly in the ground once the soil can be worked.
Cuttings Propagation
Draba spectabilis can be propagated through cuttings in late spring or early summer. Take 3-4 inch stem cuttings from the parent plant, remove the lower leaves, and place them in a container filled with moist sand or vermiculite. Keep the cuttings moist and in a shaded area. Once the cuttings have rooted, transplant them into pots or a well-draining soil in a garden.
Division Propagation
Draba spectabilis can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early spring, just before new growth starts, or in the fall after the plant has finished blooming. Carefully dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good portion of roots attached. Replant the divisions into a well-draining soil and keep them watered until they become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Draba spectabilis var. typica
Draba spectabilis var. typica is a hardy and resilient plant that is not usually affected by pests or diseases. However, certain conditions can make the plant susceptible to infections. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot disease is one of the most common diseases affecting Draba spectabilis var. typica. Symptoms of the disease include the formation of spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to their withering and falling off. The disease is usually caused by fungal pathogens and can be managed through proper sanitation practices, such as removing and destroying infected plant debris, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. The disease appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems, which can ultimately lead to stunted plant growth and reduced yield. Powdery mildew can be managed by ensuring adequate air circulation, proper irrigation, and the use of fungicides.
Pests
Some common pests that can affect Draba spectabilis var. typica include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests suck the sap out of the plant and weaken its growth. To manage pest infestations, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest activity and to take appropriate measures to control their spread. This may include biological control techniques, such as introducing natural predators or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
In conclusion, Draba spectabilis var. typica is a hardy plant that can thrive despite some exposure to pests and diseases. It is important to regularly inspect the plants to detect any signs of disease or pest infestations early on and to take appropriate measures to control their spread.
