Species Woody-Branched Rockcress
light-green leaves with grey stems and branches

Woody-Branched Rockcress

Boechera lignifera

Woody-Branched Rockcress (Boechera lignifera) is a dormant, woody perennial from the Brassicaceae family. It is a low-growing plant with multiple stems that arise from underground rhizomes. Leaves are alternate and have a pinnate structure. Tiny white flowers occur during early summer, with petals that often have a purple blush. This plant is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun or part shade and sandy or rocky soils. It is best suited for areas where water is scarce and is a common sight in dry climates. Woody-Branched Rockcress is an easy-to-care-for plant that makes an attractive addition to any garden landscape.

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Purple|Pink Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Woody-Branched Rockcress should be watered regularly, both to maintain its optimal health and to promote flowering. Water the plant deeply, approximately every 2 to 3 days, to ensure its roots are completely reached by the water. Once every week, however, it is best to let the soil dry out between watering sessions. This will help avoid root rot, a common issue with this species. If the soil is too dry, the leaves will start to look wilted.

sunlight

Woody-Branched Rockcress (Boechera lignifera) thrive in full sun, so they should receive as much sunlight as possible--at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day throughout the growing season. This species prefers warmer climates and can thrive with increased seasonal sunshine. When grown indoors, choose a sunny spot with ample natural light, preferably near an east-facing window. To avoid damaging its delicate stems and leaves, Woody-Branched Rockcress should be exposed to strong midday sun sparingly or not at all, and full sun should be avoided during periods of drought.

pruning

Woody-Branched Rockcress (Boechera lignifera) should be pruned in early spring when the temperatures have risen above freezing. Pruning at this point encourages lush new growth that will flower in the summer. Pruning should involve removing up to 1-third of the plant's stems in order to promote a healthy, attractive shape. Once the blossoms of the plant begin to fade, deadheading or trimming off the individual flower heads can be done to maintain a neat appearance. Deadheading is especially important for preventing the plant from using its energy to produce more seed pods. Pruning should be done carefully and not cut too close to the stems. It is also beneficial to thin any overcrowded stems and trim off any crossed branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Woody-Branched Rockcress typically starts flowering in April.