Tower Mustard
turritis glabra
Also known as: ["Tower Cress","Tall Winter Cress"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its tall, erect flowering stems and pinnately divided leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Turritis |
| Botanical Name: | Turritis glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize less in winter; use balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss blend.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining mix, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for seeds; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead stems at the base; trim lightly to encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure adequate warmth and light.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may become leggy in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
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-toxicTurritis glabra is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTurritis glabra is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTurritis glabra is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not commonly used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Turritis glabra edible?
A: There is limited information on its edibility; it is not commonly consumed.
Q: How tall does Turritis glabra grow?
A: It typically grows to 30–60 cm in height.
Q: Does Turritis glabra attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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