Great-hairy cress

lepidium hirtum

Also known as: ["Hairy cress","Great hairy cress"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Lepidium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its pungent leaves and small white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["culinary herb","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Lepidium
Botanical Name: Lepidium hirtum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Culinary Herb Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in hot climates.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or stem cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Sow seeds or take cuttings.
  3. Maintain moisture.
  4. Provide warmth and light.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or perlite and peat moss for cuttings.

Hormone

Optional for cuttings, but can improve rooting success.

Timeline

Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; cuttings root in 2–4 weeks and establish in 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Seed trays, pruners, rooting hormone, misting bottle, heat mat.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim back spent flower stalks and dead foliage; pinch tips to encourage bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Lepidium hirtum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may result from water stress, pests, or diseases affecting chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Lepidium hirtum is typically caused by water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pests or diseases, leading to reduced water uptake.

Leaf spots on Lepidium hirtum are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to necrotic lesions that can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant.

Rotting in Lepidium hirtum is often a result of fungal infections or bacterial pathogens, particularly in moist conditions, which can lead to decay of roots, stems, or leaves.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lepidium hirtum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lepidium hirtum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant health risk if ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lepidium hirtum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for human consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lepidium hirtum edible?

A: Yes, the leaves are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.

Q: Does Lepidium hirtum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.

Q: How often should I water Lepidium hirtum?

A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","culinary herb","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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