Species Common Shepherd's Purse
light-pink flowers, beige petioles, and green-brown stems

Common Shepherd's Purse

Capsella bursa-pastoris

Common Shepherd's Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) is an annual flowering plant in the mustard family. Commonly found in lawns, pastures, roadsides, and gardens, it can survive in almost any environment. This species has small, white flowers that form a rosette shape at the top of a thin, upright stem. The flowers produce seeds in a heart-shaped, flattened pod called a silicle. The plant has a range of medicinal benefits and is also edible for both humans and livestock. Its small size and hardy nature make it an attractive and versatile addition to any landscape.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade,full shade,sun-part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Common Shepherd's Purse is a hardy annual plant that prefers moist but well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, generally every 5-7 days, depending on the temperature and soil type. During hot, dry spells, it may need to be watered more frequently.

sunlight

Common Shepherd's Purse prefers bright, but indirect sunlight. This plant prefers to receive between 3-4 hours of partial sunlight each day. If it is receiving too much direct sunlight it will need to be shaded. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves of the plant to scorch and turn yellow. In the winter months, Common Shepherd's Purse may require additional light sources, like LED bulbs, to give it the 3-4 hours of sunlight daily.

pruning

Common Shepherd's Purse should generally be pruned in the spring before the plant flowers, or in the early stages of flowering. In general, it's best to prune off any stems that are visibly dead or damaged. You can also remove any weaker, thinner stems that may be competing with the strongest stems for light and resources. Aim to prune away no more than a third of the plant for best results. Be sure to use clean and sharp pruning tools, and sterilize them between uses to help reduce the risk of disease.