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Description
Cardamine Pattersonii, also known as Patterson’s bittercress, is a beautiful herbaceous plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in wet habitats such as swamps, wetlands, and streams. It is an annual or biennial plant that can grow up to 16 inches tall and 6 inches wide. The leaves are dark green and elongated, while the flowers are small and white or pink.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
The leaves of Cardamine Pattersonii are pinnately compound and can grow up to 8 inches long. The flowers are small and have four petals, usually white or pink with a darker vein in the center. The plant produces small seed pods that are cylindrical and up to 1 inch long. The seeds are small and brown. The overall appearance of the plant is delicate and beautiful, making it an excellent choice for gardens or wetland areas.
Care Guide
Cardamine Pattersonii requires moist soil and partial shade to thrive. It prefers a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and will benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. This plant can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, as long as the soil is kept moist. It can tolerate some drought but will not do well in extremely dry conditions. In terms of hardiness zones, Cardamine Pattersonii can grow in zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cardamine Pattersonii is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant. If you notice any signs of wilting or yellowing leaves, check the soil moisture level and adjust accordingly.
Habitat
Cardamine Pattersonii is native to North America and is commonly found in wetland areas such as swamps, streams, and wet meadows. It can grow in both full sun and partial shade, but prefers a cooler environment with plenty of moisture. This plant is an important food source for many insects and wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cardamine Pattersonii grow in full sun?
A: Yes, it can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: Is Cardamine Pattersonii a perennial or annual plant?
A: It can be either an annual or biennial plant.
Q: Does Cardamine Pattersonii require special soil?
A: It prefers moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Q: Is Cardamine Pattersonii a good plant for a wetland habitat?
A: Yes, it is an excellent choice for wetland habitats and can grow in swamps, streams, and wet meadows.
Related Plants
- Cardamine Californica
- Cardamine Hirsuta
- Cardamine Pratensis
- Cardamine Trifolia
References
- “Cardamine Pattersonii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CAPA13
- “Cardamine Pattersonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280263&isprofile=0&
- “Patterson’s Bittercress.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed August 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/pat_bittercress.htm
