Round-leaved Thlaspi

noccaea rotundifolia

Also known as: ["Thlaspi rotundifolium"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Noccaea Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, herbaceous plant with rounded leaves and small, white or pale yellow flowers, typically found in alpine and subalpine regions.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Noccaea
Botanical Name: Noccaea rotundifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with organic matter; mix of loam, sand, and compost.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in early spring before new growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or shape.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil drainage or nutrient imbalance.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, rocky or sandy loam

pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.

Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust care with seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed propagation; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems; remove yellow or dead leaves.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts first; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, allowing moisture to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the soil around the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with lime or sulfur if needed.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or leaf discoloration.

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Noccaea rotundifolia can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, often affecting photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health.

Wilting in Noccaea rotundifolia may result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Noccaea rotundifolia are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in chlorotic or necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Noccaea rotundifolia is typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to tissue decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Noccaea rotundifolia. The plant's compounds can cause discomfort but are not typically severe unless ingested in large quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting drooling loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Noccaea rotundifolia may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of glucosinolates. While not typically life-threatening, repeated exposure could potentially affect thyroid function.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets closely. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Noccaea rotundifolia contains glucosinolates and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and potential thyroid issues with prolonged consumption. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wash hands after handling. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Noccaea rotundifolia toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: Where does Noccaea rotundifolia typically grow?

A: It is commonly found in alpine and subalpine regions with rocky or disturbed soils.

Q: How difficult is it to care for Noccaea rotundifolia?

A: It requires moderate care, suitable for enthusiasts or those with some gardening experience.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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