Arabis hirsuta aka Hairy Rockcress

Taxonomy

Arabis hirsuta, commonly known as hairy rock-cress, is a member of the Brassicaceae family and is native to Europe, Asia, and the northern half of North America. However, it is now more commonly restricted to a narrower subgroup found only in Europe. This hairy plant is erect and typically unbranched, growing to a height of 15-60 cm (6-18 inches), with a long spike of flowers that bloom from June to August. The lower leaves form a rosette, while the upper leaves are stalkless and clasp the stem. The white petals are twice as long as the sepals, and the seeds are reddish-brown and slightly winged. The plant's hairs are stiff and forking. Arabis hirsuta grows on chalk slopes, dunes, hedgebanks, walls, and rocks. In the UK, its conservation status is near threatened as of 2001. Eschscholtz's Hairy Rockcress, on the other hand, is a super rare houseplant that needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and should be kept less than 1 foot from a window. This plant likes soil that is well-draining. Although this description is for Eschscholtz's Hairy Rockcress, it is important to note that it is a different species from Arabis hirsuta.

Common names

Hairy Rockcress, Hairy Rock Cress, Fringed Rock Cress

How to care for Hairy Rockcress

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Hairy Rockcress is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Hairy Rockcress should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Hairy Rockcress loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Hairy Rockcress prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Hairy Rockcress as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Hairy Rockcress’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, N. Africa and N. Asia to Japan.


More info:
Wikipedia