Purple Rocket
orychophragmus violaceus
Also known as: ["Chinese Wall Cress","Viola Orychophragmus"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to China, known for its violet-blue flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Orychophragmus |
| Botanical Name: | Orychophragmus violaceus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; ensure excess water can escape freely.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning is best done annually in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid excessive pruning during dorma
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid leaf burn; adjust placement between indoor and outdoor settings based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); adjust if necessary with pH amendments.
Check drainage by watering; amend soil if it stays wet too long; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cool conditions during dormancy (50–60°F or 10–15°C); avoid extreme fluctuations.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing; avoid propagation during dormancy.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat moss and perlite or coarse sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–8 weeks; full establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation medium, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant; pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove any dead or diseased parts.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems; focus on structural improvement and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before and after use; prune during active growth; remove dead or crossing branches; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy or flowering.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent stagnation; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or yellowing leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced growth and potential frost damage; prolonged cold can cause root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering in cold periods to prevent waterlogged soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; high temperatures may lead to premature flowering or seed production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOrychophragmus violaceus is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOrychophragmus violaceus is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOrychophragmus violaceus is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Orychophragmus violaceus toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Purple Rocket?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Purple Rocket attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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