Hoary cress
Lepidium draba · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hoary cress: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, gray-green
- Flowering
- April to June, white flowers in clusters
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Well-drained, alkaline or neutral
Care
Watering
Water moderately after planting to promote root establishment. Once established, hoary whitlowgrass is very tolerant of drought and requires little water. Avoid excess moisture, particularly in winter, which could cause root rot.
Light exposure
Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It develops best with at least 6 hours of direct light per day. A sunny exposure promotes more abundant flowering and a compact habit.
Soil
Prefer well-drained, light soil that is rather alkaline. Hoary whitlowgrass tolerates poor and rocky soils. Improve drainage by adding gravel or sand if your soil is heavy or clayey.
Pruning and maintenance
Perform light pruning after flowering to maintain a bushy habit and prevent overgrowth. Remove dead or damaged stems in late winter. This plant does not require severe pruning.
Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is sufficient. Hoary whitlowgrass grows well in poor soils and does not require regular fertilization. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
The plant is generally robust and seldom affected by diseases. Nevertheless, watch for powdery mildew in warm and humid conditions. Flea beetles may occasionally attack the foliage; treat preventively if necessary with biological methods.
Did you know?
Considered a highly invasive 'weed' in North America, hoary whitlowgrass rapidly colonized open areas and agricultural lands after its accidental introduction in the 19th century. Its flat, lightweight siliques disperse easily by wind and water, which explains its remarkable spread capacity. Despite this invasive potential, it remains appreciated in the Mediterranean region of Europe for its delicate white spring flowers.
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.