Tree Mustard
brassica fruticulosa
Also known as: ["Island Tree Mustard","Tree Cabbage"]
Overview
A small, woody-stemmed plant in the Brassicaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region, known for its pungent leaves and potential culinary uses.
Benefits & Perks
["culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Brassica |
| Botanical Name: | Brassica fruticulosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
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, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frost.
Use shade cloth in summer; protect from frost in winter; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; remove suckers; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for nutrient replenishment.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting; place in shaded area for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
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; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature bolting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, or lead to premature flowering.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or develop sunburn; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute to half strength; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBrassica fruticulosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It is safe for cats to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBrassica fruticulosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It is safe for dogs to consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBrassica fruticulosa, commonly known as the Mediterranean cabbage, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family and is often consumed as a leafy green vegetable.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Brassica fruticulosa edible?
A: Yes, it is used in some culinary traditions, particularly in the Mediterranean, for its pungent leaves.
Q: How does Brassica fruticulosa differ from other Brassicas?
A: It is a woody-stemmed species, unlike many other Brassicas which are herbaceous.
Q: Does Brassica fruticulosa attract wildlife?
A: It may attract certain pollinators, but specific wildlife attraction is not well-documented.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
