Bulbous Bittercress

Cardamine bulbosa

Physical Characteristics

Cardamine bulbosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to August, and the seeds ripen from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, 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 or wet soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Vermont to Ontario and Minnesota, south to Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Leaves - raw[105, 177]. Added to salads. The rootstock is grated and used as a condiment[207], it is a horse radish substitute[105, 177]. A hot pungent taste.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known