Wood bittercress
Cardamine flexuosa · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant wood bittercress: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (March to May)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- Moist, rich in organic matter
- Family
- Brassicaceae
Care
Watering
Woodland bittercress appreciates constantly moist but not waterlogged soil. Water regularly in spring and summer, especially if the climate is dry. In autumn and winter, reduce watering but maintain slight moisture, particularly for potted plants.
Light exposure
Choose a partially shaded or shaded location, ideally under tree cover or against a north-facing wall. This plant dislikes intense direct sun in summer, which dries out its delicate foliage.
Soil and substrate
Use soil rich in humus, well-draining yet moisture-retentive. Enrich the soil with compost or leaf mold before planting. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is ideal for its development.
Pruning and maintenance
Cut back faded stems after flowering to encourage compact growth and prevent excessive self-seeding. In late autumn, remove dead plant debris. Pruning should be light and preserve the natural shape.
Fertilizer
A compost application in spring is usually sufficient. If the plant appears weakened, apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK) diluted in spring. Avoid excess feeding, which would encourage loose foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Woodland bittercress is rarely subject to serious diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in case of stagnant humidity. Aphids may occasionally appear in spring; a water spray or gentle treatment is usually sufficient.
Did you know?
Cardamine flexuosa is a pioneer plant of great ecological importance: it rapidly colonizes disturbed moist areas and becomes one of the first plants to reestablish itself after flooding or deforestation. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, wild cardamines were widely consumed as bitter salad herbs and tonics, valued for their supposed diuretic properties.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.