Turritis glabra
Turritis glabra · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant turritis glabra: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Plant type
- Biennial herbaceous plant
- Mature size
- 60 to 90 cm in height
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Flower color
- Cream white, small flowers in clusters
- Foliage
- Deciduous, grayish-green, smooth and glaucous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy
- Origin
- Temperate Europe, Western Asia
Care
Light exposure
Glabrous rockcress prefers a sunny or semi-shaded location. It tolerates partial shade well but flowers more abundantly in full sun. Place it in a bright spot to encourage vigorous growth and better flowering.
Soil preparation
This plant adapts to most well-drained soils, even poor or chalky ones. It dislikes waterlogging. Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost before planting, avoiding excess nitrogen which could encourage foliage at the expense of flowers.
Regular watering
Water moderately and regularly, especially during active growth periods and dry spells. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, this biennial tolerates dry conditions better.
Moderate fertilization
A balanced fertilizer applied in spring is plenty. Avoid excess nitrogen which would harm flowering. For a biennial, a single application at the start of the growing season is generally sufficient.
Deadheading
Regularly remove spent flowers to extend blooming and encourage new flower clusters. You can lightly cut back the plant after flowering to maintain a compact form if desired.
Disease prevention
Glabrous rockcress is generally not very susceptible to diseases. However, watch for aphids and flea beetles (small Brassicaceae beetles) which can occasionally damage it. Ensure good air circulation and optimal drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Did you know?
Glabrous rockcress bears the scientific name 'glabra' referring to its smooth, hairless foliage, an unusual characteristic in this genus. It is a ruderal plant historically linked to the flora of disturbed areas and pathways, often used in Europe as a bioindicator of chalky soils. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family, the same as cabbage and turnip, and has seeds rich in sulfur compounds typical of this family.
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.