Arctic Pennycress: A Rare Northern Treasure for Specialized Gardens
If you’re drawn to the idea of growing something truly unique and wild, arctic pennycress (Noccaea arctica) might catch your eye. This little-known perennial forb calls the coldest corners of North America home, and while it’s undeniably special, it’s not your typical garden center find. Let’s dive into what makes this plant so fascinating—and why growing it comes with some important considerations.
What Is Arctic Pennycress?
Arctic pennycress is a small, hardy perennial that belongs to the mustard family. True to its name, this tough little plant thrives in some of the harshest conditions on the continent. It produces clusters of tiny white flowers and has adapted to survive in environments that would make most garden plants throw in the trowel.
You might also see it listed under its former scientific names, including Thlaspi arcticum, but regardless of what you call it, this plant is all about survival in extreme conditions.
Where Does It Naturally Grow?
Arctic pennycress is native to the far northern reaches of North America, specifically Alaska, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories of Canada. This plant has evolved to thrive in arctic and subarctic conditions where most other plants simply can’t survive.
The Rarity Factor: Why This Matters
Here’s where things get serious: arctic pennycress has a conservation status of S3, meaning it’s considered vulnerable. This classification indicates that the plant is either very rare throughout its range or faces factors that could threaten its survival. With typically only 21 to 100 occurrences or between 3,000 and 10,000 individuals, this isn’t a plant to take lightly.
If you’re considering growing arctic pennycress, please only source it from reputable suppliers who obtain their material responsibly and legally. Never collect from wild populations, as this could harm already vulnerable communities of this rare plant.
Growing Conditions: Not for the Faint of Heart
Let’s be honest—arctic pennycress isn’t going to thrive in your typical suburban garden. This plant demands:
- Extremely cold conditions (USDA Hardiness Zones 1-4)
- Well-draining soil
- Full sun exposure
- Cold winter temperatures for proper dormancy
If you live anywhere warmer than zone 4, you’re likely fighting an uphill battle. This plant has evolved for arctic conditions and doesn’t adapt well to milder climates.
Garden Design and Landscape Role
For the rare gardener in the right climate zone, arctic pennycress could work in:
- Specialized alpine or rock gardens
- Native plant collections focusing on arctic flora
- Cold-climate botanical displays
- Educational gardens highlighting extreme climate adaptations
Its compact form and clusters of small white flowers can add interest to rock gardens, though you’ll need to create conditions that mimic its native arctic environment.
Pollinator and Wildlife Benefits
While specific pollinator relationships aren’t well-documented for arctic pennycress, plants in the mustard family typically attract small pollinators like flies and small bees. In its native range, it likely plays a role in supporting the limited but specialized pollinator communities that exist in arctic environments.
The Bottom Line: Should You Grow It?
Arctic pennycress is undeniably fascinating, but it’s not a plant for most gardeners. Unless you live in an extremely cold climate (zones 1-4) and are committed to creating specialized growing conditions, you’ll likely struggle to keep this plant alive, let alone thriving.
More importantly, given its vulnerable conservation status, growing arctic pennycress comes with ethical responsibilities. Only consider this plant if:
- You live in zones 1-4
- You can source it from reputable, responsible suppliers
- You’re prepared for the challenge of replicating arctic conditions
- You’re committed to conservation-minded gardening
For most gardeners interested in unique native plants, consider exploring more readily available native options suited to your specific region. Your local native plant society can help you discover fascinating plants that are both easier to grow and more appropriate for typical garden conditions.
Remember, sometimes the best way to appreciate a rare plant like arctic pennycress is to support its conservation in the wild rather than attempting to grow it in our gardens.
