Thlaspi (bastard cress) — Low-growing, compact

Overview

Thlaspi is a low-growing, compact annual biennial in the genus Thlaspi, part of the Brassicaceae family, with basal rosettes, lance-shaped leaves foliage. Thlaspi grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include alpine gardens, rockeries, troughs and containers.

About

Thlaspi, commonly known as bastard cress or besom weed, is a low-growing, compact cultivar of the genus Thlaspi in the Brassicaceae family. It forms basal rosettes of lance-shaped leaves and thrives in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect. Preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil with a neutral pH, it is hardy in the UK to H5. This cultivar is suitable for alpine gardens, rockeries, troughs, and containers, offering interest in spring and summer. Propagation can be achieved by seed or division.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Thlaspi

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Thlaspi size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Low-growing, compact
Foliage: Basal rosettes, lance-shaped leaves
Suggested uses: Alpine gardens, rockeries, troughs, containers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Thlaspi

Propagation: Seed, division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-resistant
Disease resistance: Generally disease-resistant

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Thlaspi?

Thlaspi prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Thlaspi need?

Thlaspi grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Thlaspi hardy in the UK?

Thlaspi has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Thlaspi?

Seed, division.

More in the Thlaspi genus

Browse all Thlaspi →