Biscutella laevigata
Biscutella laevigata · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant biscutella laevigata: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Perennial Lunaria, Rock Penny Cress
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Perennial herb
- Flowering
- April to June, yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zone 3-4)
- Origin
- Mountains of central and southern Europe
Care
Exposure
Biscutella laevigata prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It appreciates well-exposed locations protected from strong winds. In very hot regions, light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil and planting
This plant loves well-draining, rather poor and calcareous soils, as in its natural mountain habitat. Avoid heavy and compact soils. A mixture with gravel or crushed limestone promotes good development and limits moisture problems.
Watering
Once established, Biscutella laevigata is very sparing with water. Water moderately at planting then let rain do the work. During prolonged dry periods, occasional watering is enough. Fear stagnant moisture more than drought.
Fertilising
This little perennial doesn't require special enrichment. Poor to average soil suits it perfectly. You can add a little very coarse compost at planting time, then let it thrive without regular feeding.
Pruning and cleaning
Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period and maintain the compact appearance of the clump. In late winter, clean up any damaged or dried parts. Generally not invasive, it doesn't require drastic pruning.
Diseases and pests
Robust and rarely troubled by problems, Biscutella laevigata mostly fears excessive moisture which can promote root rot. Plant it in well-draining soil and avoid excessive watering. Typical pests of Brassicaceae are rare on this species.
Did you know?
Biscutella laevigata owes its name to the distinctive shape of its fruits in two rounded lobes ('biscutella'), which resemble two small coins placed side by side. This discreet but hardy alpine perennial is a treasure of Mediterranean rock gardens and an excellent choice for gardeners seeking an undemanding plant that flowers generously before summer arrives.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CransonArmoracia rusticana
- Sea kaleCrambe maritima
- Mountain AlyssumAlyssum montanum
- Wall rock cressArabis caucasica
- Rocket SaladEruca sativa
- WasabiEutrema japonicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.