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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 15 Oct 2026methodology → read

Lepidium intermedium

Lepidium intermedium
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Lepidium intermedium (Lepidium intermedium) — botanical photograph
Pl. 4C19 — Lepidium intermedium
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Overview

Lepidium intermedium, commonly known as intermediate pepperweed, is an annual or biennial plant native to regions including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Mexico Central. This plant thrives in environments with a variety of soil types, from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), and prefers moist conditions. Intermediate pepperweed can grow up to 0.3 meters tall and is adaptable to both full sun and partial shade. Its edible leaves and seeds are often used in culinary applications, making it a valuable resource for foragers and gardeners. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, intermediate pepperweed's edible parts contribute to its practical value. Its adaptability and native range make it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes within its native regions.

Quick answers

What is Lepidium intermedium?

Lepidium intermedium, commonly known as intermediate pepperweed, is an annual or biennial plant native to regions including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Mexico Central.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Lepidium intermedium thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant, which can be either an annual or biennial, grows to about 0.3 meters tall. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to areas including Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mexico Central, and Montana. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds. Harvest the edible leaves and seeds for use in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual, Biennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Lepidium intermedium for the first time

8steps

Start with Lepidium intermedium as an easy-to-grow annual, focusing on basic care and harvesting.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, or in late summer for fall harvests.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining, light to heavy.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, spacing them about 15 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Continue regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune or harvest leaves as needed, taking only a third of the plant at once to encourage new growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting regular harvesting.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: Condiment
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 17 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Yemen
Africa2 regions
native (2)EthiopiaTanzania
Broader regions
native:Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mexico Central, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Lepidium intermedium (Lepidium intermedium) — botanical photograph
Lepidium intermedium (Lepidium intermedium)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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