Species Alpine Bitter Cress
white flowers, lime center, yellow anthers, green buds, leaves and green stems

Alpine Bitter Cress

Cardamine bellidifolia

Alpine Bitter Cress (Cardamine bellidifolia) is a hardy species of low-growing perennial found in the mountain regions of western North America. It has small, bright yellow blooms and attractive, lobed, heart-shaped foliage. The foliage comes in shades of green, silver, and bronze, making it a great addition to the garden. This plant is able to stand up to cold winters and snow, making it an ideal choice for the high elevation gardens. Its bright yellow flowers provide a cheerful splash of summer color. Alpine Bitter Cress grows best in wet, sandy or rocky soil with occasional watering. With its long-lasting blooms, this low-maintenance powerhouse of a plant is an excellent choice for mountain gardens.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

This Alpine Bitter Cress plant should be watered just enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy. To determine when to water, stick your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil is damp, then do not water. If it is dry, then water lightly. Water the plant every 7-10 days during the growing season and monthly in the winter, or whenever the soil becomes dry. It is important to monitor the soil moisture levels and make adjustments accordingly.

sunlight

Alpine Bitter Cress requires full sunlight in order to thrive. As a sun-loving plant, it should be grown in a location that receives direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day. If grown in partial sun, the plant may become weak and may not produce flowers. For optimal results, it should be planted in an area that receives full sun all day. It can tolerate some shade but will not reach its full potential if not grown in plenty of sunlight.

pruning

Alpine Bitter Cress should be pruned in late spring right before the plant starts to blossom. It is best to remove only the dead or diseased stems in order to maintain the plant’s shape and health. Be sure to sterilize your pruning shears beforehand with rubbing alcohol or an anti-fungal solution. Prune sparingly, as too much pruning can cause the plant to become thin and spindly. Pruned stems should also be removed from the area as they can harbor diseases and pests.