Cardamine amara (large bittercress) — Clump forming

Overview

Cardamine amara is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Cardamine, part of the Brassicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Cardamine amara grows best in full sun, partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens.

About

Cardamine amara, known as large bitter-cress, is a species of flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. It is a perennial with upright, mostly unbranched, stems to 70 cm (28 in) tall, and leaves made up of between three and 13 leaflets.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cardamine

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade, Full shade
Soil type: Loam, Clay, Chalk, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
Aspect: North, South, East, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Cardamine amara size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cardamine amara

Propagation: Seed, Division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to club root

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Cardamine amara?

Cardamine amara prefers full sun, partial shade and full shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Cardamine amara need?

Cardamine amara is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, clay, chalk and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to poorly-drained.

Is Cardamine amara hardy in the UK?

Cardamine amara has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Cardamine amara?

Seed, Division.

More in the Cardamine genus

Browse all Cardamine →