Hoary Alyssum
berteroa incana
Also known as: ["Hoary Madwort","Silver Berteroa"]
Overview
A hardy annual or biennial plant with greyish-white, hairy foliage and small, yellow flowers. It is often found in disturbed areas and is known for its tolerance to poor soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Berteroa |
| Botanical Name: | Berteroa incana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open garden beds, rock gardens, or meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but not extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced fertilizer every 2–3 months if desired
Fertilize sparingly; apply in early morning or evening; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss blend).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plants establish in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Allow water to drain freely; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); foliage may turn brown or black.
Solution: Provide frost protection (mulch, row covers); plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowers may fade quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBerteroa incana is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBerteroa incana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested or if there is skin contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBerteroa incana, commonly known as whitlowgrass, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Berteroa incana toxic to horses?
A: Yes, it is toxic to horses and can cause neurological symptoms if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Does Berteroa incana require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives in poor, dry soils.
Q: Does Berteroa incana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its small, yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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