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Description
Cardamine Lyrata, also known as lyrate bittercress, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 2-3 feet in height. This plant has a basal rosette of leaves that are deeply lobed and lyre-shaped, hence the name “lyrate.” The stems are slender and can produce small white or pink flowers during the spring and summer months. Cardamine Lyrata is a great addition to any garden due to its attractive foliage and easy-to-grow nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
Cardamine Lyrata has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants in your garden. The leaves are deep green and lyre-shaped, with a jagged edge that gives them a delicate, lacy look. The stems are thin and wiry, and can grow up to 2-3 feet high. Small white or pink flowers can appear in clusters on the stems during the spring and summer months. This plant is a perfect addition to any garden bed or border where its foliage can be appreciated.
Care Guide
Cardamine Lyrata is a relatively easy plant to care for and maintain. Here are some tips to help you keep your plants healthy and thriving:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly once a week or more often in hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to help promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Plant Cardamine Lyrata in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Cardamine Lyrata grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cardamine Lyrata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still be susceptible to some common problems:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and damage the plant.
- Black spot: A fungal disease that causes black spots on the leaves and stems.
- Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Cardamine Lyrata is native to North America and can be found growing in forests, meadows, and along streambanks. It prefers moist, shady areas and can often be found growing near water. This plant is well-suited to woodland gardens, shade borders, and rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cardamine Lyrata toxic to pets or humans?
A: No, Cardamine Lyrata is not toxic to pets or humans.
Q: Can I grow Cardamine Lyrata in a container?
A: Yes, Cardamine Lyrata can be grown in a container as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is kept in partial shade.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cardamine Lyrata?
A: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to help promote healthy growth.
Q: Can I divide my Cardamine Lyrata plant?
A: Yes, Cardamine Lyrata can be divided in the spring or fall to create new plants.
Related Plants
- Cardamine pratensis (Cuckooflower)
- Cardamine diphylla (Crinkleroot)
- Cardamine bulbifera (Coralroot bittercress)
- Cardamine concatenata (Cutleaf toothwort)
References
- The Spruce. Cardamine Lyrata Plant Profile. https://www.thespruce.com/cardamine-lyrata-plant-profile-4843521
- Gardening Know How. Lyrate Bittercress Care: How To Grow Lyrate Bittercress Plants. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/lyrate-bittercress/grow-lyrate-bittercress-plants.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Cardamine Lyrata. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c692
