Wavy Bittercress
cardamine flexuosa
Also known as: ["Wavy Bittercress","Flexuosa Cardamine"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous annual or biennial plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its delicate white flowers and peppery-tasting leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Cardamine |
| Botanical Name: | Cardamine flexuosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded rock garden, or container in a cool, shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic content; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; avoid direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter conditions if moving from deep shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor low-light areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; thrive in dappled light; suitable for north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid hot, direct sun; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Division or seed; easily propagated by dividing clumps in spring or early autumn.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with roots attached.
- Replant immediately in prepared soil.
- Water gently.
Best Time: Spring or early autumn when the plant is actively growing or preparing for dormancy.
Environment
Moist but well-drained environment; partial shade; consistent temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Rich, well-draining soil with added organic matter; can also be propagated in water for seeds or divisions.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: germination in 2–4 weeks, establishment in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sharp knife, clean pots.
Quick Tips
Divide when plants are overcrowded; ensure each division has roots; plant at the same depth as original.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems at the base; trim back flower stalks after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; trim spent flowers; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite for drainage.
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
Prolonged cold can cause root damage and inhibit growth; may enter dormancy prematurely.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold moisture buildup.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may struggle in high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCardamine flexuosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCardamine flexuosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCardamine flexuosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been documented to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cardamine flexuosa edible?
A: Yes, the leaves have a peppery taste and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Q: Is it invasive?
A: It can spread quickly in favorable conditions, often acting as a weed in gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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