Woodland Whitlow-Grass

(Draba nemorosa)

Woodland Whitlow-Grass (Draba nemorosa)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 15" - 51"
High Temp. 68°F - 84°F
Low Temp. -3°F - 24°F

Summary

Draba nemorosa, commonly known as Woodland Whitlow-grass, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and open woodlands across the subarctic and temperate Northern Hemisphere. It is particularly adapted to cold, well-drained conditions found in these regions. This plant typically forms low-growing mats reaching 5-15 cm in height and is characterized by its small rosettes of basal leaves and slender flowering stems.

Woodland Whitlow-grass blooms in the spring, producing clusters of tiny, four-petaled white flowers that are quite showy despite their size. The plant’s ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils and its low maintenance requirements make it a suitable choice for rock gardens, alpine collections, and as ground cover in suitable climates. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. While it is not commonly found in cultivation, it can be an attractive addition to gardens designed with native and low-maintenance plants in mind.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and open woodlands across the subarctic and temperate Northern Hemisphere

Other Names

Common Names: Yellow Whitlow Grass

Scientific Names: Draba nemorosa, Crucifera nemorosa, Draba dictyota, Draba gracilis, Draba intermedia, Draba intermedia, Draba lutea, Draba lutea, Draba lutea var. brevipes

GBIF Accepted Name: Draba nemorosa