Rorippa amphibia
Rorippa amphibia · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant rorippa amphibia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June, small yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 40 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20°C
- Origin
- Europe, Northern Asia
- Natural habitat
- Wetlands, marshes, riverbanks
Care
Watering
Amphibious yellowcress appreciates moist to very wet soils. Keep the substrate constantly wet, even saturated with water depending on the context (cultivation in a basin or marshy area). Reduce watering slightly in winter, but don't let the soil dry out completely.
Light Exposure
This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates semi-shaded areas well, particularly in water gardens or basins shaded by other plants. Good light exposure promotes more abundant flowering.
Soil and Substrate
Prefer rich, loamy soil, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained but very moist. Yellowcress also adapts to poor substrates in natural wetlands. It tolerates silty and peaty soils typical of marshes.
Fertilizing
A moderate application of organic fertilizer in spring is generally sufficient. In water gardens or mineral-rich wetlands, no supplemental feeding is needed. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and Maintenance
Lightly cut back stems after flowering (June-July) to encourage compact branching. Clean up dry parts in late autumn for neatness. Control spread if the plant becomes too invasive in wet areas.
Diseases and Pests
Amphibious yellowcress is generally very hardy and rarely affected by diseases. In stagnant wet conditions, watch for algae or mold growth. Aphids may occasionally visit, but good air circulation minimizes these problems.
Did you know?
Amphibious yellowcress is a true botanical amphibian: it survives equally well in aquatic environments and dry soil, adapting its morphology and roots to its surroundings. Once used in traditional pharmacopeia for its supposed purifying properties, it remains today a plant of major ecological interest in European wetlands, where it provides habitat for amphibians and aquatic insects.
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.