Cardamine pentaphyllos
Cardamine pentaphyllos · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cardamine pentaphyllos: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Five-leafed Cardamine, Five-lobed Toothwort
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- April to June, white or pale pink flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 50 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, composed of 5 to 7 leaflets
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Central and western Europe
- Soil type
- Rich, humus-filled, well-drained
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth, especially in spring and summer. Reduce watering in winter, but don't let the soil dry out completely. This plant appreciates cool, slightly shaded environments.
Light exposure
Prefer partial shade or a semi-shaded area. Cardamine also tolerates complete shade under deciduous trees. Avoid direct intense sunlight, particularly in warm climates, which can scorch the delicate foliage.
Soil and planting
Grow in rich soil well amended with organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral. A humus-filled, well-drained soil is ideal. Enrich at planting time with compost or leaf mould to promote establishment.
Pruning and maintenance
No strict pruning is necessary. Remove spent flowers to encourage possible reflowering. In autumn, allow the foliage to yellow naturally before removing it. Divide clumps every 3 to 4 years.
Fertilising
A moderate application of compost each spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen-rich fertiliser which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering. Organic mulching maintains freshness and gradually enriches the soil.
Pests and diseases
Plant with few susceptibilities to common diseases. Watch for stagnant moisture which could encourage rhizome rot. In very humid conditions, fungal rots may occur: improve drainage and air circulation to prevent this.
Did you know?
Five-leafed cardamine was traditionally used in European herbalism under the name 'toothwort' for its supposed stimulating properties. Its delicate flowers attract bees and butterflies in spring, making it an excellent ally for ecological gardens and shaded woodland areas where few flowering plants thrive.
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.