Warley Rose Stonecress Aethionema 'Warley Rose'

Water

Persian stonecress should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage a strong root system. During the growing season, water with approximately one gallon per plant every week if there has been no significant rainfall. Adjust the amount of water depending on the weather conditions; reduce it during rainy periods and increase it during hot, dry spells. It's important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Over winter, reduce watering significantly, only providing water if there is an extended dry spell, as the plant is dormant and requires less moisture.

Light

Persian stonecress thrives in full sun exposure where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant is in a south-facing garden that enjoys ample sunlight throughout the day. However, it can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates where some respite from the intense afternoon sun can be beneficial.

Temperature

Persian stonecress prefers temperate conditions and can tolerate a range of temperatures but grows best when the daytime temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. This plant is hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 0°F, making it suitable for many temperate climate gardens. To ensure optimal growth, protect it from extreme heat or cold, especially if the temperature drops below freezing for prolonged periods.

Pruning

Persian stonecress benefits from light pruning to promote healthy growth and a neat appearance. Pruning should be done in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems from the previous year. Cutting the plant back by about one-third after it has finished flowering can also encourage a second bloom. Regularly deadheading spent blooms throughout the flowering season can improve the plant's vigor and aesthetic appeal.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Persian Stonecress prefers well-drained soil mixed with grit or sand to enhance drainage, keeping it light and airy. The ideal pH for this plant is slightly alkaline, ranging from 7.0 to 7.5. Incorporate some compost for fertility, but avoid rich soils that retain moisture.

Repotting

Persian Stonecress does not require frequent repotting and can often thrive in the same container for several years. It is typically repotted only when it has outgrown its current pot or when the soil needs refreshing, which is generally every 2 to 3 years.

Humidity & Misting

Persian Stonecress thrives in environments with low to moderate humidity levels. They do not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air conditions, making them suitable for average home or garden environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, good airflow, and low humidity for Persian Stonecress indoors.

• Outdoor

  Place Persian Stonecress in full sun with well-draining soil outdoors.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Warley Rose (Aethionema 'Warley Rose') begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, typically in the spring, after experiencing a period of cold stratification that breaks their dormancy. It then enters the vegetative growth stage, where the plant develops its root system and foliage, forming a small, bushy perennial with grey-green leaves. As it matures, the Warley Rose produces dense clusters of pink or purplish flowers from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed pods that eventually dry and release seeds, completing the reproductive stage. If conditions allow, the plant may then experience a period of dormancy, particularly in cooler climates, where it rests over the winter and resumes growth with the return of warmer temperatures. Some individual plants may live for several years, making the Warley Rose a short-lived perennial with a capability to self-seed and potentially establish new plants nearby.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Propogation: Aethionema 'Warley Rose', commonly known as Persian Candytuft, is usually propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is in spring after the risk of frost has passed, or in autumn to allow the winter cold to stratify them naturally. To propagate, seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, lightly covered, and kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within 14 to 30 days. Seedlings can then be grown on in cooler conditions until they are strong enough to be transplanted outdoors. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing new plants true to the parent.