Contents
Description
Cardamine Hirsuta, also known as Hairy Bittercress, is a fast-growing weed that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This annual or biennial plant is native to Europe but has spread to North America and other parts of the world. It is commonly found in lawns, gardens, and other disturbed areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
| Species | Cardamine Hirsuta |
Appearance
Hairy Bittercress grows up to 12 inches in height and has a basal rosette of leaves with small leaflets. The stem is slender and hairy, and the flowers are white or pink and small, measuring about 1/8 inch across. The seed pods are long and narrow, about 1/2 inch in length, and contain several small seeds.
Care Guide
Hairy Bittercress is a fairly low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering, well-draining soil, and partial shade. It can grow in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hairy Bittercress is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids and flea beetles, which can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. It can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as Pythium and Rhizoctonia.
Habitat
Hairy Bittercress can be found in a variety of habitats, including lawns, gardens, fields, and waste areas. It prefers moist, shaded areas but can tolerate some sun exposure. It is an annual or biennial plant that can reproduce by seed and can quickly spread to form dense patches.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hairy Bittercress edible?
A: Yes, the leaves of Hairy Bittercress are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish. The plant has a slightly bitter taste, hence its name.
Q: How can I control Hairy Bittercress in my lawn?
A: Hand-pulling or mowing the plant before it goes to seed can help control the spread of Hairy Bittercress. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the early spring can also prevent the plant from germinating.
Q: Is Hairy Bittercress harmful to pets?
A: Hairy Bittercress is not known to be toxic to pets, but it can be a nuisance if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Hairy Bittercress be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Hairy Bittercress has not been extensively studied for its medicinal properties, but it has been traditionally used to treat respiratory and digestive ailments.
Related Plants
- Cardamine Flexuosa
- Cardamine Pratensis
- Cardamine Bulbifera
References
- “Cardamine Hirsuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287898.
- “Hairy Bittercress.” Plant Identification UK, www.plant-identification.co.uk/skye/brassicaceae/cardamine-hirsuta.htm.
- “Hairy bittercress.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=1013.
