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Description
Cardamine Californica, commonly known as Milk Maids or Toothwort, is a beautiful perennial plant native to California. It belongs to the family Brassicaceae, which is known for its edible and medicinal plants. The plant is characterized by its delicate foliage and beautiful pink or white flowers, which bloom from late winter to early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
The Cardamine Californica plant has a basal clump of light green leaves that are 2-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are lobed and toothed, with a glossy appearance. The plant grows up to 12 inches tall, and the stems are slender and upright. The flowers are small, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter, and are either pink or white. They bloom in clusters, with four petals and six stamens. The flowers give way to slender seed pods that are about 1 inch long.
Care Guide
Cardamine Californica is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, making it suitable for many climates. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to become leggy, so it is best to apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cardamine Californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and snails, which can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or handpicking. Powdery mildew and rust are common diseases that can affect this plant. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Cardamine Californica is native to California and can be found in damp areas, including stream banks, meadows, and forests. It is a popular garden plant and is often used in rock gardens and border plantings.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cardamine Californica an edible plant?
A: Yes, the leaves of Cardamine Californica are edible and have a mild peppery flavor. They can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Can Cardamine Californica grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Cardamine Californica can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Cardamine Californica?
A: Cardamine Californica prefers consistently moist soil, so it is best to water it once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
Q: When should I plant Cardamine Californica?
A: Cardamine Californica can be planted in the spring or fall, depending on your climate.
Related Plants
- Cardamine bulbosa
- Cardamine pratensis
- Cardamine hirsuta
- Cardamine pentaphylla
References
- “Cardamine Californica.” San Francisco Botanical Garden, https://www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/plant-month/2018/cardamine-californica.html.
- “Cardamine Californica.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274023.
- “Milk Maids.” Las Pilitas Nursery, http://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/288–cardamine-californica.
