Hairy Bittercress
cardamine hirsuta
Also known as: ["Spring Cress","Hairy Winter Cress"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous annual plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its peppery-tasting leaves and rapid growth.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Cardamine |
| Botanical Name: | Cardamine hirsuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; suitable for woodland or garden settings.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer; protect from intense afternoon sun indoors or outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with leaf mold or compost.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild frost but avoids extreme heat.
Keep away from drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, not required in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding; easily propagated from seeds after flowering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or seed-starting medium with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for stem cuttings; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Stem cuttings root in 2–3 weeks; seeds germinate in 1–2 weeks under ideal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip off dead/overgrown parts with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote further blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim rootbound roots; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and frequently during active growth in spring and fall; reduce watering in summer and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in outdoor settings; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots in temperatures above 75°F (24°C).
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute fertilizer correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCardamine hirsuta is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCardamine hirsuta is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCardamine hirsuta, commonly known as hairy bittercress, is not considered toxic to humans. It is often consumed as a wild green or used in salads.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cardamine hirsuta edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and seeds have a peppery flavor and are edible.
Q: Does Hairy Bittercress attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Q: Is this plant considered a weed?
A: Yes, it is often considered a weed due to its rapid growth and tendency to spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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