Arctic Whitlowgrass

Draba arctica

Native to:
Greenland, Svalbard, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Brassicaceae
Genus:
Draba
Species:
Draba arctica
USDA Symbol:
DRAR5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
15 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug
Bloom Colors:
white, yellow

Garden & Ecology Notes

Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
thrives in cold, alpine environments

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–90 days
Germination Time:
14–42 days
Notes:
Seeds require light for germination. Cold stratification improves germination rates.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Most Drabas germinate at warm temperatures, some need a few days warm, then 3 weeks cold, then warm

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society