Image - Wikimedia / Density
The white carraspique (Iberia bitter) is a seasonal plant highly appreciated for its lush flowering and its ability to beautify any corner of the garden or in pots. Although it does not exceed thirty centimeters in height, its colorful inflorescences manage to impress even those without gardening experience. Not only does it stand out for its ornamental value, but also offers relevant medicinal properties for digestive health.
One of its greatest advantages is its ease of cultivationAll you need to do is acquire its seeds and provide some basic care to enjoy its beauty during the warm season. Would you like to learn more about the white carraspique and discover all its secrets? Continue reading this detailed article.
Main characteristics of the white carraspique
This plant belongs to the genus Iberis already the family of the Brassicaceae, which includes about thirty species among which we find both annual and perennial herbaceous plants and small subshrubs.
- Scientific name: Iberia bitter.
- Common names: White kermes oak, white kermes oak, kermes oak, kermes oak, silver basket, iberis.
- Origin: It is native to southern and central Europe and northern Africa, found on slopes, roadsides and rocky areas.
- Size and height: A compact annual plant that rarely grows taller than 30 cm. The thin, branched stems bear elongated, toothed, bright green leaves.
- Flowers: Throughout spring and part of summer, it produces numerous clusters of white flowers, although there are varieties with flowers in shades of lilac, pink, or even purple. The flowers are fragrant and arranged in inflorescences resembling small, dense heads.
- Fruit: After pollination, it produces a small rounded pod, from which seeds are obtained for reproduction.
Main uses and ornamental value
The white carraspique It is very versatile and is used in both ornamental gardening and natural applications:
- Borders and rockeries: It is ideal for creating flowery borders, covering slopes, filling gaps between stones and providing a carpeting touch.
- Pots and balconies: Perfect for growing in pots, especially on balconies and terraces thanks to its compact size and abundant flowering.
- Coastal gardens: It tolerates saline environments and is suitable for mild climates with not excessively cold winters.
- Esthetic: Its early flowering heralds the arrival of color in the garden before spring. It's often seen in full bloom while other plants have yet to awaken from their winter dormancy.
White Carraspique Care: Complete Guide
If you want to have a healthy specimen and enjoy its color, follow these tips for growing both in pots and in the garden:
- Location: Place your white carraspique in exterior, where you receive full sun for most of the day. It is a plant that loves intense light.
- Floor type:
- In pots: Use universal growing substrate mixed with perlite in equal parts to ensure good drainage.
- In the garden: Although it adapts to all types of soils, prefers calcareous soils and light. It is very important to avoid waterlogging and clayey or heavy soils to prevent root rot.
- Irrigation: Moderate. In the warmer months, water every other day, allowing the substrate to dry partially between waterings. The rest of the year, space out watering but don't allow the plant to dry out completely. It's very drought tolerant once established.
- Subscriber: During the floweringApply a liquid fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium, always following the product's instructions. You can also fertilize every two weeks during the active season (spring-summer).
- Pruning: After flowering, perform intensive pruning, removing dried branches and flowers (where the seeds are found). you stimulate the next flowering and maintain a compact and tidy appearance.
- Planting or transplanting time: Sow and transplant in spring or early summer when there is no longer any risk of frost.
- Resistance: It tolerates light frosts but can suffer leaf damage if the winter is very cold. In these cases, cut off the damaged parts in early spring to promote recovery.
Multiplication and propagation
- By seeds: The most common method. Sow seeds in a seedbed or directly into the ground in late winter or early spring. They germinate easily with mild temperatures and good humidity.
- By cuttings: In perennial varieties such as iberis sempervirens (a relative of the annual white sagebrush), can be propagated by cuttings in spring or late summer.
Common diseases and pests
The white carraspique is a very resistant plant both diseases and pests. The main problem is usually associated with excess moisture in the substrate, which can cause root rot or mildew.
- Always keep the substrate with good drainage.
- Avoid over-fertilizing or fertilizing in soils that retain water.
- If you notice yellow leaves or spots, check your watering and remove the affected parts.
Medicinal properties of white carraspique
Image - Wikimedia /homeka
Beyond its ornamental value, the white carraspique stands out for its high in vitamin C, necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. In addition, has digestive and carminative properties, which is why it is traditionally used to relieve heavy digestion, gas and stomach discomfort.
It is also attributed to him mild purifying and anti-inflammatory effectsHowever, it should be used in moderation, as high doses can cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Traditional Instructions for Use
The white carraspique is mainly used in infusion:
- Place 30g of dried flowers and seeds in a liter of boiling water.
- Strain and sweeten with a teaspoon of honey if desired.
- Drink two or three cups a day, preferably after meals.
It is important to consult with a specialist before starting any natural treatment, especially if you suffer from chronic illnesses or are taking medication.
Due to its ease of cultivation, resistance and multifunctionality, the white oak It is becoming a must-have for those looking for a decorative and useful plant in the garden. Its ability to flourish in Adverse conditions, along with its simple care, make it perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners.