Bittercress (Cardamine pennsylvanica)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Biennial
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. A polymorphic species. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a moist humus rich soil in shade or semi-shade.
Propagation
Seed - sow outdoors in a seedbed in a shady position in April. Plant out in autumn or spring. Division.
Edible uses
Leaves - raw or cooked. The grated raw root is used as a condiment.
Medicinal uses
The leaves and the flowering plant are carminative and digestive.
Habitat
Usually found in moist or wet soils.
Native range
N. America - Newfoundland to Minnesota and Montana, south to Florida, Tennessee and Kansas.