Cardamine pratensis
Plant Details
General Information
Scientific name:
Cardamine pratensis
Also known as:
Cuckoo Flower, Lady`s smock
Images:
Google Images
Plant Properties
Layer:
Herb layer
Format:
Smal
Height:
0.50 m
Width:
0.30 m
Growth Rate:
-
Leaf:
-
Growth conditions
USDA Hardiness:
4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist, Wet
Moist, Wet
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Half shade, Sun
Half shade, Sun
Usage properties
Edible part:
Leaves, Flowers
Leaves, Flowers
Edibility:
Medicinal:
Features:
Bee plant
Bee plant
Description
The leaves and young shoots of this plant can be eaten both raw and cooked. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, but have a bitter and sharp taste. The leaves and young shoots can be harvested in the spring and taste somewhat like watercress. They are available early in the year and make a tasty addition to salads when used in small amounts. The flowers and flower buds can be eaten raw and have a spicy, watercress-like flavor. The white flowers are attractive and add a pleasant crunch and delightful taste to salads.
Harvest Data
Start Harvest:
15/04
End of Harvest:
15/06
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Corylus avellana Hazel |
Enhances soil fertility through nitrogen fixation and provides shade. |
|
Vaccinium myrtilloides Sourtop Blueberry, Velvetleaf huckleberry |
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, enhancing the ecosystem. |
|
Lupinus perennis Sundial lupine, Wild lupine |
Fixes nitrogen in the soil, promoting healthier growth for surrounding plants. |
|
Fragaria vesca Wild strawberry |
Ground cover reduces weeds while producing edible fruits. |
|
Phytolacca americana Poke root, Pokeweed |
Serves as a natural pesticide, repelling harmful insects. |