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Description
Cardamine Scutata, also known as Western Bittercress, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the western regions of the United States and Canada. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has a basal rosette of leaves.The leaves are pinnately compound with 3-7 leaflets and are arranged in a basal rosette. The flowers of Cardamine Scutata are small and white with four petals, blooming from May to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
Cardamine Scutata has basal leaves that are pinnately compound with 3-7 leaflets. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The flowers are small and white with four petals and bloom from May to June. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has a basal rosette of leaves.
Care Guide
Cardamine Scutata requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Fertilize the plant during the growing season with an all-purpose fertilizer.The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate frost. However, it is susceptible to root rot if the soil remains too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cardamine Scutata is susceptible to aphids, slugs, and snails. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by handpicking them off the plant. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cardamine Scutata is native to North America and is commonly found in the western regions of the United States and Canada. The plant is typically found in moist areas such as stream banks, meadows, and woodland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cardamine Scutata toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Cardamine Scutata is toxic to pets.
Q: Can Cardamine Scutata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cardamine Scutata can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate watering and sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Cardamine Scutata?
A: Fertilize the plant during the growing season with an all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Cardamine Scutata?
A: Cardamine Scutata can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
- Cardamine Californica
- Cardamine Hirsuta
- Cardamine Nuttallii
- Cardamine Pratensis
References
- “Cardamine Scutata.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Western Bittercress.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- “Cardamine Scutata.” Pacific Northwest Wildflowers.
