Field Pepperwort (Lepidium campestre)

Field Pepperwort

Lepidium campestre

Tiny white blooms dot upright stems, a quiet wildflower beauty. Hardy herbaceous biennial; common name: field cress.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates exposed, dry sites with minimal competition
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells to avoid root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool to warm temperate conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of oblong to spatulate leaves; stem leaves are smaller, lanceolate, and clasping
  • Flower: Tiny four-petaled white blooms in dense terminal racemes
  • Stem: Erect, sparsely hairy, with branched upper growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during extended dry periods; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Light diluted feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support bloom production
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower racemes to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Thin overcrowded basal rosettes in early spring to improve airflow
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No reported toxicity to humans; young leaves and seeds are edible in moderation

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible young leaves and seeds; provides nectar for small pollinators like bees