Alpine pennycress

Description

Noccaea fendleri, also known as Fendler's pennywort, is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the Western United States, where it can be found growing in rocky, mountainous habitats at high elevations. In this article, we will explore the various characteristics, uses, and growing requirements of Noccaea fendleri. Taxonomy and Classification Noccaea fendleri was first described by the botanist George Engelmann in 1880. It is named after the American botanist Augustus Fendler, who collected the first specimen of the plant in the mid-19th century. The genus Noccaea is a relatively recent addition to the Brassicaceae family and was formerly classified as a subgenus of the genus Thlaspi. The species name "fendleri" is a Latinized form of Fendler's surname. Physical Characteristics Noccaea fendleri is a small herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 10-20 cm. It has a rosette of basal leaves that are oblong or spatulate in shape, with a slightly toothed margin. The leaves are covered in fine hairs and can range in color from green to grayish-green. In the spring and early summer, Noccaea fendleri produces small white or pink flowers that are arranged in a loose inflorescence at the end of a stem. The flowers are approximately 5-7 mm in diameter and have four petals arranged in a cross shape. After flowering, the plant produces small, oblong seed pods that contain the plant's seeds. Habitat and Distribution Noccaea fendleri is native to the Western United States, where it can be found growing in rocky, mountainous habitats at high elevations. Its natural range includes the states of Arizona, Colorado, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Within its native range, Noccaea fendleri is found in alpine and subalpine habitats, often growing on rocky slopes, talus fields, and scree. Noccaea fendleri is also cultivated as an ornamental plant and can be found in gardens and nurseries throughout its native range and beyond. It is particularly well-suited for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and other small-scale planting schemes. It is also used in xeriscaping and other low-maintenance landscaping strategies due to its tolerance for dry and rocky soil conditions. Cultivation Noccaea fendleri is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The plant is tolerant of drought and can thrive in rocky, nutrient-poor soil conditions. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant for the home gardener. Propagation of Noccaea fendleri can be done through seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the spring or fall and should be lightly covered with soil. The seeds will germinate in 1-2 weeks and can be transplanted once they have developed their first true leaves. Division can be done in the spring or fall by carefully separating the plant's rosette and replanting the individual divisions. Once established, Noccaea fendleri requires little maintenance. It can be watered during extended periods of drought, but excessive watering can cause the roots to rot. Fertilization is generally not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. Noccaea fendleri is a great choice for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and other small-scale planting schemes. Its tolerance for dry and rocky soil conditions make it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and other low-maintenance landscaping strategies. Uses Noccaea fendleri has several potential uses, both in traditional medicine and in horticulture. In traditional Native American medicine, the plant was used to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, coughs, and colds. The plant was also used as a poultice to treat wounds and as a tea to alleviate stomach problems. However, it is important to note that traditional uses of the plant have not been extensively studied, and its safety and efficacy have not been scientifically validated. In horticulture, Noccaea fendleri is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its small size and delicate flowers make it an attractive addition to rock gardens, alpine gardens, and other small-scale planting schemes. The plant's tolerance for dry and rocky soil conditions also make it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and other low-maintenance landscaping strategies. In addition, Noccaea fendleri can also be used as a model organism for studying plant adaptation to harsh environmental conditions. Its ability to thrive in rocky, nutrient-poor soil conditions and high elevations makes it a valuable species for studying plant evolution and adaptation. Growing Requirements Noccaea fendleri is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The plant is tolerant of drought and can thrive in rocky, nutrient-poor soil conditions. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant for the home gardener. Propagation of Noccaea fendleri can be done through seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the spring or fall and should be lightly covered with soil. The seeds will germinate in 1-2 weeks and can be transplanted once they have developed their first true leaves. Division can be done in the spring or fall by carefully separating the plant's rosette and replanting the individual divisions. Conservation Status The conservation status of Noccaea fendleri is currently listed as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This is because the plant has a wide distribution across western North America and is not considered to be facing any significant threats. However, some localized populations may be at risk due to habitat loss and degradation from human activities, such as mining and development. As with all plant species, it is important to conserve and protect Noccaea fendleri and its natural habitats to ensure its continued survival and the preservation of its genetic diversity. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting high-elevation habitats, reducing human impacts on rocky slopes, and limiting the spread of invasive plant species. Conclusion Noccaea fendleri is a small but hardy plant that has several potential uses, both in traditional medicine and in horticulture. Its delicate flowers and tolerance for rocky soil conditions make it an attractive addition to rock gardens and other small-scale planting schemes. As a low-maintenance plant that is resistant to pests and diseases, Noccaea fendleri is an ideal choice for the home gardener looking to add a touch of beauty to their landscape.