Hoary Cress (Lepidium draba)

Hoary Cress

Lepidium draba

It spreads aggressively as a weed, with clusters of tiny white blooms. Perennial herbaceous weed; common names: hoary cress, whitetop.

Full sun
0–1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, disturbed, and nutrient-poor soils.
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Watering Drought-tolerant once established; requires minimal supplemental watering only during prolonged dry spells.
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Temperature Cold-hardy, able to survive harsh winter temperatures; adapts to temperate and semi-arid climates.
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal leaves form a rosette, oblong to spatulate with toothed margins; stem leaves are smaller and clasping.
  • Flower: Tiny four-petaled white blooms in dense terminal clusters.
  • Stem: Erect, branched, and covered in fine white hairs creating a hoary texture.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water only during extended dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent excessive spread

Fertilization

No regular fertilization recommended; nutrient-rich soils may encourage aggressive spreading. Avoid fertilizing to limit rapid growth and infestation risk.

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant bases to support soil structure; avoid overapplication to prevent enhanced spreading.
Pruning
  • Remove flower heads before seed set to prevent widespread dispersal.
  • Dig up entire root systems to control infestations, as root fragments can regrow into new plants.
  • Mow or cut back stems in late spring to reduce seed production and limit spread.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Not explicitly listed, but glucosinolates may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.

Humans: Contains glucosinolates; ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal irritation.

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: N/A (considered a noxious invasive weed in many regions)