American Water Cress
Cardamine rotundifolia
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Pl. A755 — Cardamine rotundifolia
Cardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifoliaCardamine rotundifolia
IOverview
Overview
American Water Cress, scientifically known as Cardamine rotundifolia, is a perennial herb native to the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. Found in moist to wet environments such as stream banks, ditches, and marshes, this plant thrives in light to partial sun and various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Hardy in zones 5-9, it can grow up to 0.3 meters tall. Known for its edible leaves, American Water Cress is a valuable addition to gardens or natural landscapes where it requires consistent moisture. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to flourish across diverse habitats, making it a versatile and resilient plant in native ecosystems.
Quick answers
What is American Water Cress?
American Water Cress, scientifically known as Cardamine rotundifolia, is a perennial herb native to the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
American Water Cress thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 5-9. For best results, plant it where it can receive plenty of sunlight but also some shade to keep the soil moist. This perennial grows up to 0.3 meters tall and produces edible leaves that are often used in salads or as a garnish. Propagate through division or seed sowing directly in the garden bed.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet, water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow American Water Cress for the first time
8steps
Start with American Water Cress in a moist, sunny spot for your first gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, containers or garden beds, potting soil if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.3 m apart in rows or transplant young plants into the prepared bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide partial sun to full sun exposure.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around the base for moisture retention and weed control.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune or harvest leaves as needed, cutting back about 1/3 of the plant to encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning, using poor soil quality, and not providing enough organic matter.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: American Water Cress is eaten for its leaves, which can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The plant thrives in moist environments and is commonly found in wetlands across several eastern U.S. states. Its fresh, peppery flavor makes it a popular addition to both raw and cooked dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Ontario, Québec, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, Maryland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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