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Description
Cardamine Trifolia, commonly known as three-leaved bittercress, is a herbaceous perennial plant species belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It is native to North America and found in moist to wet soil habitats such as swamps, bogs, and stream banks. It is a delicate-looking plant with a rosette of three-lobed leaves and small white flowers that bloom in early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Cardamine |
Appearance
Cardamine Trifolia has a basal rosette of three-lobed leaves that are smooth and hairless. The leaves are typically 1-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaflets are oval to nearly round and have a slightly toothed margin. The stem of the plant is slender, erect, and can grow up to 12 inches tall. The small white flowers bloom in early spring and have four petals that are about 1/8 inch long. The fruit is a slender pod that is about 1 inch long and contains several small seeds.
Care Guide
Cardamine Trifolia prefers moist to wet soil and partial to full shade. It requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary as it is a low-maintenance plant. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cardamine Trifolia is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by aphids and slugs. To control aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap. For slugs, use slug bait or handpick them off the plant. Cardamine Trifolia is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Cardamine Trifolia is native to North America and is found in moist to wet soil habitats such as swamps, bogs, and stream banks. It is a common plant in wetland areas and is often used in wetland restoration projects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cardamine Trifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, Cardamine Trifolia is not toxic to pets.
Q: How often should I water Cardamine Trifolia?
A: Cardamine Trifolia prefers moist to wet soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can Cardamine Trifolia tolerate full sun?
A: No, Cardamine Trifolia prefers partial to full shade.
Q: When should I plant Cardamine Trifolia?
A: Cardamine Trifolia can be planted in early spring or early fall.
Related Plants
- Cardamine Bulbosa
- Cardamine Hirsuta
- Cardamine Pratensis
- Cardamine Pensylvanica
References
- “Cardamine Trifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280788&isprofile=0&basic=cardamine%20trifolia. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
- “Three-leaved Bittercress.” Plant Conservation Alliance, National Park Service, www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/catr1.htm. Accessed 22 Sept. 2021.
