Draba cinerea var. ladogenensis: The Mysterious Whitlow-grass Variety
If you’ve stumbled upon the name Draba cinerea var. ladogenensis while researching native plants, you’ve discovered one of botany’s more elusive characters. This particular variety of whitlow-grass is so specialized and rare in cultivation that even seasoned native plant gardeners might scratch their heads when they encounter it.
What We Know (And Don’t Know)
Draba cinerea var. ladogenensis belongs to the mustard family (Brassicaceae), and like its botanical relatives, it’s likely a small, herbaceous plant. However, here’s where things get interesting – and by interesting, I mean frustratingly mysterious. This variety is so uncommon in horticultural circles that specific information about its characteristics, growing requirements, and garden suitability is virtually non-existent in standard gardening resources.
The var. ladogenensis part of its name suggests this is a distinct variety of the species Draba cinerea, but without clear documentation of its native range, we can’t definitively say where this plant calls home or whether it would be appropriate for your garden.
The Reality Check for Gardeners
Let’s be honest – this isn’t the plant you’re going to find at your local native plant sale or order from your favorite specialty nursery. The lack of available information about Draba cinerea var. ladogenensis suggests it’s either:
- Extremely rare in the wild
- Of primarily scientific rather than horticultural interest
- Possibly extinct or no longer recognized as a valid variety
- Limited to very specific, hard-to-replicate growing conditions
Better Alternatives for Your Garden
If you’re interested in adding small, early-blooming native plants to your garden (which is likely what drew you to research Draba species), consider looking into other members of the mustard family that are readily available and well-documented:
- Native rock cresses (Arabis species) for rocky, well-drained areas
- Wild mustards native to your region
- Other Draba species that are better documented and available in cultivation
The Takeaway
Sometimes in native plant gardening, we encounter botanical names that lead us down fascinating rabbit holes. Draba cinerea var. ladogenensis appears to be one of those plants that exists more in scientific literature than in gardens. While this might be disappointing if you were hoping to grow this specific variety, it’s a good reminder of how much biodiversity exists beyond what we commonly cultivate.
For now, this mysterious whitlow-grass variety remains in the realm of botanical curiosities rather than garden-ready plants. If you’re determined to grow something from the Draba genus, I’d recommend consulting with botanical gardens, university extension programs, or specialized native plant societies in your area – they might have insights into which Draba species are actually available and suitable for cultivation in your region.
