Overview
Sisymbrium altissimum, commonly known as Tumble mustard or Tall hedge mustard, is a biennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. However, it has now widely spread across many parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
Appearance
Sisymbrium altissimum has an upright and branching growth habit and can grow up to a height of 3 feet. It has bright green leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed around the edges. The stem has a reddish tint and is rough to the touch. The flowers are small and yellow and bloom in clusters at the end of the stems.
Uses
Sisymbrium altissimum has several uses. It is commonly used as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, and indigestion. The leaves of Sisymbrium altissimum are also used as a source of nutrients for livestock, especially during the winter season when other plants are scarce. Additionally, Sisymbrium altissimum is used as a biofuel crop due to its high oil content.
Ecological Impact
Sisymbrium altissimum is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world where it has been introduced. It is highly adaptive and can grow in different soil types and environments, including disturbed areas and croplands. The plant's ability to produce large quantities of seeds and its fast growth rate make it invasive. It competes with native plants for resources, reducing biodiversity and altering the natural ecosystem.
Conclusion
Sisymbrium altissimum is a highly adaptable plant that has several uses, but it can also have negative ecological impacts when introduced to new environments. Awareness and management strategies are essential to controlling and preventing its spread, especially in areas where it is not native.
Light Requirements
Sisymbrium altissimum requires full sun exposure to thrive and reach its full growth potential. The plant cannot tolerate shade for extended periods of time and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If the plant is grown in the shade, it may become stunted and have fewer blooms.
Temperature Requirements
Sisymbrium altissimum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow well in both hot and cool conditions. The plant prefers temperatures between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it can endure temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius and as low as -10 degrees Celsius for short periods.
Soil Requirements
Sisymbrium altissimum prefers well-draining soil that is moderately fertile with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant has a deep taproot that allows it to tolerate dry and nutrient-poor soils. It can even grow in rocky, gravelly, or sandy soils. However, the soil must be well-draining so that the plant's roots do not sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot or other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Sisymbrium altissimum is a hardy plant that is easy to grow either from seeds or from a plant transplant. The best time to plant sisymbrium altissimum seeds is in the fall, as it requires cool temperatures to germinate. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure but can tolerate light shade. It can grow in almost any soil type, but it does not thrive in soil that is too wet or too dry.
Watering
Sisymbrium altissimum has moderate watering needs, and it is important to water the plant evenly. Water the plant every five to seven days if no rainwater is available. Waterlogging the soil could quickly kill it, so make sure the soil is well-draining. Be observant of the plant's foliage and adjust watering practices based on how the plant is responding.
Fertilization
Sisymbrium altissimum plants do not require too much fertilizing, but regular fertilizing can promote healthy growth and beautiful blooms. Apply a balanced granular fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and again when blooms begin to appear. Take caution not to over-fertilize the plant, as excess fertilization can cause weak growth and root burn.
Pruning
Deadheading the plant is crucial to keeping the plant looking healthy and encourages the growth of new blooms. Remove spent flowers regularly, preferably with pruning shears, to make sure the plant continues to produce flowers throughout the growing season. If you want to control the plant's height, prune the stem tips lightly with pruning shears. Cutting it back also promotes bushier growth, particularly when done at the beginning of growth in the spring or end of seeding in the fall.
Propagation of Sisymbrium altissimum
Sisymbrium altissimum, also known as Tumble mustard, can be propagated using several methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. The propagation methods include:
1. Seed Propagation
Sisymbrium altissimum can be propagated through seeds. The seeds of S. altissimum should be harvested when the pods turn from green to brown and begin to split open. Collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place, ready for planting in the following season. Seeds should be germinated on a well-prepared seedbed and kept moist until they establish.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Sisymbrium altissimum can also be propagated through vegetative means such as root cuttings. This technique is useful for individuals who want to create a large batch of plants that are all identical, as root cuttings are clones. However, this technique requires more work and resources compared to seeding. Root cuttings should be taken from mature plants and planted in peat moss under high humidity.
3. Transplantation
Sisymbrium altissimum can also be propagated using transplantation. With this method, seedlings or mature plants are moved from one location to another. Transplantation is best done in the fall or early spring when the plants are dormant.
In conclusion, Sisymbrium altissimum can be propagated using various techniques such as seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and transplantation. It is crucial to choose the appropriate method based on the resources available and your objectives.
Disease and Pest Management for Sisymbrium Altissimum
Sisymbrium altissimum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, making it relatively resistant to many diseases and pests. However, like all plants, it can still be affected by a few common issues that can cause damage to the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the main diseases that can affect Sisymbrium altissimum is powdery mildew, which is caused by a fungal infection. It appears as a white, powder-like substance on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove infected leaves immediately, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide, such as neem oil or potassium bicarbonate.
Another disease that can affect this plant is Verticillium wilt, which is also caused by a fungal infection. It can cause wilting of the leaves, yellowing, and discoloration of the plant. To manage Verticillium wilt, it is recommended to remove infected plants immediately, avoid planting in infected soil, and practice crop rotation.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Sisymbrium altissimum are aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. Aphids can cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and yellow. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars can also cause damage by eating the plant's leaves and stems. To manage caterpillars, it is recommended to pick them off by hand or spray the plant with a biological pesticide, such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
Flea beetles can also cause damage by feeding on the plant's leaves and creating small holes. To manage flea beetles, it is recommended to remove infected plants immediately, cover young plants with row covers, and spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Overall, by being proactive in managing diseases and pests, it is possible to keep Sisymbrium altissimum healthy and thriving.
