Thale Cress
arabidopsis thaliana
Also known as: ["Mouse-ear Cress","Arabidopsis"]
Overview
A small flowering plant native to Eurasia and Africa, widely used as a model organism in plant biology and genetics.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Arabidopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Arabidopsis thaliana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loose soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense light; avoid direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 5–7 days
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–70°F (15–21°C); cooler temperatures tolerated in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during active growth
Fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; mature plant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak stems to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, cut at an angle, remove dead growth, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, gently tease out tangled roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; prevents root binding.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, chlorosis, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, weakens defenses, and may cause root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced photosynthesis.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArabidopsis thaliana is not toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicArabidopsis thaliana is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a health risk to canines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicArabidopsis thaliana is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a model organism in plant biology and is not known to produce harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Arabidopsis thaliana edible?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic and its leaves can be eaten, though it is not commonly consumed as a food source.
Q: Why is Arabidopsis thaliana used as a model organism?
A: It has a small genome, short life cycle, and is easy to grow, making it ideal for genetic and molecular studies.
Q: Does Arabidopsis thaliana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its small white flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days |
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