Raphanifolia Bittercress
cardamine raphanifolia
Also known as: ["Mountain Bittercress","Raphanifolia Cardamine"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family, known for its small white flowers and pungent leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Cardamine |
| Botanical Name: | Cardamine raphanifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; a mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to avoid direct sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during growing season only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply hormone (if used), place in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and temperatures around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean cuts to remove dead or overgrown parts.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged parts, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf discoloration, slow growth, or dormancy; frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; maintain consistent temperatures above 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate water; move to a cooler location if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCardamine raphanifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCardamine raphanifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCardamine raphanifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cardamine raphanifolia edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and have a pungent, peppery flavor, often used in salads.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for woodland gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
