Large Bittercress

Cardamine amara

Physical Characteristics

Cardamine amara is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to June, and the seeds ripen from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, north to 64° N., east to the Balkans and W. Asia.

Habitats

Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw[2, 61, 115]. A hot cress-like flavour[183], nice in small quantities in a salad and available all year round in most years[K]. A somewhat bitter flavour[9].

Medicinal Uses

Antiscorbutic Diuretic Stimulant Antiscorbutic, diuretic, stimulant[132].

Known Hazards

None known