field pepperwort
lepidium campestre
Also known as: ["field pepperwort","field peppergrass"]
Overview
A small annual herb in the Brassicaceae family, characterized by its pinnately divided leaves and small, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Lepidium |
| Botanical Name: | Lepidium campestre |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or meadow setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or in early spring to remove old growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for disease control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer seeds.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate seedlings gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cold but not extreme heat.
Monitor soil temperature for seed germination; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months with balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; can also be propagated by root division in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- For division, separate roots and replant immediately.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for seeds; early spring for root division.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F/18–21°C), bright indirect light, and consistent moisture for seeds; similar conditions for root division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for seeds; standard potting mix for root division.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone may aid root division.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; root division establishes in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, labels, watering can, pruners (for division).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups to thin later; use a heat mat for faster germination; divide roots when the plant is dormant.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or diseased stems to maintain vigor.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased parts; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; not typically needed for annuals.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly once the soil surface feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; seeds may not germinate well in cold soil.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; use row covers or mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering and seed production may decline.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume significant amounts of Lepidium campestre. The glucosinolates present can cause temporary discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of large amounts of Lepidium campestre may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of glucosinolates. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term harm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicLepidium campestre contains glucosinolates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in significant amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lepidium campestre edible?
A: While some Lepidium species are edible, the edibility of Lepidium campestre is not well-documented and caution is advised.
Q: Does field pepperwort attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its small, nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How does Lepidium campestre spread?
A: It spreads primarily by seeds, which can remain viable in the soil for many years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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