Drabella muralis
Drabella muralis · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant drabella muralis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Plant type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates moderate frost
- Origin
- Southern and central Europe
Care
Light Exposure
Plant Draba muralis in full sun to partial shade. It appreciates well-lit areas for abundant flowering. A sunny position at altitude or on a sunlit wall is ideal for this alpine plant.
Soil
This plant from rocky regions prefers well-draining, light, and even poor soil. A stony or sandy substrate is perfect. Absolutely avoid heavy soils and waterlogging, which cause root rot.
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during active growth, allowing the soil surface to dry between waterings. Once established, this hardy plant tolerates drought well. In winter or naturally humid soil, reduce watering drastically.
Pruning and Maintenance
Little intervention required. Lightly pinch back young plants to encourage branching. After flowering, remove spent flowers to encourage another flush of blooms or prevent excessive self-seeding, depending on your preference.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is necessary, and it may even be discouraged for this frugal plant of poor terrain. Naturally fertile soil could encourage foliage at the expense of flowering. A thin layer of compost in spring is sufficient if needed.
Diseases and Pests
Draba muralis is generally very robust. Watch for powdery mildew in conditions of stagnant humidity or poor air circulation. Good aeration and well-draining soil prevent most problems. Aphids may occasionally appear on young shoots.
Did you know?
Draba muralis, also called Wall Draba, is a tiny alpine herb that has colonized old stone walls and rock gardens for centuries across Europe. Its Latin name 'muralis' literally means 'of walls,' and it has long been a botanical indicator of ancient constructions. Its tiny white-pink flowers have inspired gardeners for generations to enhance rock gardens and dry stone wall crevices.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CransonArmoracia rusticana
- Sea kaleCrambe maritima
- Mountain AlyssumAlyssum montanum
- Wall rock cressArabis caucasica
- Rocket SaladEruca sativa
- WasabiEutrema japonicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.