Large Bittercress (Cardamine raphanifolia)

Large Bittercress

Cardamine raphanifolia

Its crisp, lobed leaves carry a peppery bite, a wild edible with delicate blooms. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Large Bittercress.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to full shade; prefers dappled woodland light and avoids intense midday sun exposure
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist; avoid allowing the growing medium to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in cool to temperate growing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves are large, lobed or pinnately divided; stem leaves are smaller, clasping the stem.
  • Flower: Clusters of small, white, four-petaled blooms arranged in upright racemes.
  • Stem: Smooth, hollow green stems that branch near the upper growth.
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; water when the top 1 cm of medium feels dry

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Use diluted, low-strength fertilizer to avoid burning delicate root systems

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drenching and discard solid debris to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower racemes to encourage extended blooming periods
  • Trim back yellowing basal leaves to maintain plant tidiness and airflow
  • Cut back foliage to ground level after flowering to promote new growth in the following season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic; leaves are edible with a mild peppery flavor

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible leaves with peppery flavor for salads, garnishes, or cooked greens