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Description
Cardamine Oligosperma, commonly known as few-seeded bittercress, is an annual or biennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, and disturbed areas. It is a small plant that typically grows up to 6 inches in height and has leaves that are 1-3 inches long. It produces small white flowers that bloom from April to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
The few-seeded bittercress has a basal rosette of leaves that are pinnately divided and have a toothed margin. The stem is slender and smooth, with few branches. The plant produces small white flowers that are about 1/8 inch in diameter and have four petals. The fruits are long, narrow capsules that contain few seeds. The plant has a taproot system that allows it to tolerate dry conditions.
Care Guide
The few-seeded bittercress is a low-maintenance plant that prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may require more water. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer. The few-seeded bittercress is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The few-seeded bittercress is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and snails. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and remove any infected or damaged leaves. Use organic insecticides or repellents if necessary. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and damping-off. Avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation to prevent fungal growth.
Habitat
The few-seeded bittercress is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, fields, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist soils and partial shade but can tolerate full sun. The plant is often found growing in wetlands, along stream banks, and in ditches.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the few-seeded bittercress edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and young shoots of the plant are edible and have a spicy taste. They can be used in salads or cooked as a potherb.
Q: Can the few-seeded bittercress be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a pot or container. It requires moist soil and partial shade.
Q: How long does the few-seeded bittercress take to flower?
A: The plant typically flowers from April to June.
Q: Is the few-seeded bittercress a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and digestive problems.
Related Plants
- Cardamine Hirsuta
- Cardamine Pratensis
- Cardamine Pycnocarpa
- Cardamine Flexuosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cardamine oligosperma Nutt. Fewseed bittercress. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CAOL6
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Cardamine oligosperma. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/few_seed_bittercress.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cardamine oligosperma. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282835&isprofile=0&
