Cardamine raphanifolia
Cardamine raphanifolia
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Pl. 812E — Cardamine raphanifolia
Cardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifoliaCardamine raphanifolia
IOverview
Overview
Cardamine raphanifolia, commonly known as the winter cress, is a perennial plant native to France and Spain. It thrives in moist to wet environments with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, growing up to 0.5 meters tall. This plant is valued for its edible leaves, which can be enjoyed raw or cooked. Its preference for a pH range of 5–5.5 and hardiness zones 4-8 make it adaptable in various climates. One distinctive feature of this plant is its light texture; it has been noted to have an energetic quality that aligns with a relatively mild influence, making it suitable for gardens where a gentle presence is desired.
Quick answers
What is Cardamine raphanifolia?
Cardamine raphanifolia, commonly known as the winter cress, is a perennial plant native to France and Spain. It thrives in moist to wet environments with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, growing up to 0.5 meters tall. This plant is valued for its edible leaves, which can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cardamine raphanifolia thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH of 5–5.5. It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4-8 and can grow up to 0.5 meters tall. This perennial requires partial shade to full sun, with moderate light exposure recommended. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist while avoiding waterlogged conditions. Propagate through seeds or division of established plants. Harvest the edible leaves for culinary use.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
5–5.5
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Cardamine raphanifolia for the first time
7steps
Start with Cardamine raphanifolia as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with moist, well-draining soil. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep or plant small plants in the garden or containers.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and remove any yellowing leaves to keep the plant healthy.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Cardamine raphanifolia are edible and can be eaten fresh or cooked. They are often used in salads for their slightly peppery taste. The plant grows best in moist, well-draining soil with a pH between 5 and 5.5. Skip
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native· 2 introduced
Europe4 regions
native (2)FranceSpain
introduced (2)AlbaniaUnited Kingdom
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 812e0fac-2eea-4294-ab26-4a36378d22c4
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