Plant Details

Cardamine pratensis

Cuckoo Flower, Lady`s smock

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Cardamine pratensis.

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General Information

Scientific name: Cardamine pratensis
Also known as: Cuckoo Flower, Lady`s smock

Plant Properties

Layer: Herbaceous
Size: Small
Height: 0.50 m
Width: 0.30 m
Growth Rate: None
Leaf: None

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 4-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist, Wet
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Partial shade, Full sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Leaves, Flowers
Edibility:
(3)
Medicinal:
(5)
Features:
Bee forage

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