Cuckoo Flower
Cardamine loxostemonoides
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Pl. 197A — Cardamine loxostemonoides
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IOverview
Overview
Cuckoo Flower, scientifically known as Cardamine loxostemonoides, is an annual plant native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Tibet, and West Himalaya. It thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. This plant reaches a height of 0.3 meters and is known for its edible leaves and shoots, which can be harvested for culinary use. Its presence in the Cardamine genus places it within the family Brassicaceae, sharing characteristics with other mustard plants.
Quick answers
What is Cuckoo Flower?
Cuckoo Flower, scientifically known as Cardamine loxostemonoides, is an annual plant native to the mountainous regions of China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Tibet, and West Himalaya.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cuckoo Flower thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is native to regions such as China South-Central, East Himalaya, Nepal, Tibet, and West Himalaya. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp while providing ample sunlight. Harvest its edible leaves and shoots for use in your garden or kitchen.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cuckoo Flower for the first time
8steps
Start with Cuckoo Flower as an easy-to-grow annual for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or direct garden space, potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors about 4-6 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots filled with potting soil. Transplant outdoors when seedlings are 2-3 inches tall and weather is warm.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny or partially shaded spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, keeping the soil consistently moist. Fertilize lightly with compost every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers and leaves as needed to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The Cuckoo Flower's leaves and shoots are edible. These parts can be eaten raw or cooked. They add a mild flavor to salads or can be steamed as a green vegetable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaNepal
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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