Overview
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib, commonly known as thick-leaved bittercress, is perennial herbaceous plant species belonging to the mustard family, Brassicaceae. The plant is widely distributed in Western North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon.
Appearance
The plant has a basal rosette of leaves that are evergreen and dark green in color. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and waxy, and grow up to 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant also has upright stems that can reach up to 16 inches in height and bear small white or pink flowers in the spring.
Uses
The plant is considered a weed by some due to its tendency to rapidly spread and take over moist, shaded areas. However, it does have some medicinal uses, such as being used as a natural remedy for coughs and chest congestion. The leaves of the plant can also be used to make a bitter tea, which is believed to have a cooling effect on the body.
In addition, the plant is sometimes used as a ornamental plant in rock gardens or as groundcover due to its low-growing and spreading habit. Its dark green and evergreen foliage makes it an attractive option for year-round interest in the garden.
Overall, Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib is a unique and versatile plant species with both medicinal and ornamental uses. Its thick, waxy leaves and small white or pink flowers make it easy to identify, while its tendency to spread makes it a good candidate for groundcover or in moist, shaded areas.
Light requirements
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. is a shade-loving plant species. It prefers low to moderate light conditions and can tolerate partial to full shade. The plant can grow under direct sunlight, but it may experience leaf scorch or wilting if left in direct sun for too long.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows well in cool temperature conditions, with an optimum range of 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It can tolerate extreme temperatures of up to -20°C (-4°F) during winter. However, the plant may struggle to grow in hot and humid conditions, and its flowers may wilt in temperatures above 30°C (86°F).
Soil requirements
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a pH range between 5.0 and 7.0. Sandy loamy or clay soils are ideal, but the plant can grow in a variety of soil types. The plant requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist, especially during the summer months.
Cultivation methods
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. is a fairly low-maintenance plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. However, it does best in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.
When planting, ensure the soil is loosened and free of any weeds or debris. Dig a hole slightly deeper and wider than the root ball, and gently place the plant in the hole. Fill in the hole with soil and pack it down firmly around the base of the plant. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Watering needs
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. needs consistent moisture to thrive. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly hot and dry.
During periods of heavy rainfall, it may be necessary to cut back on watering to prevent overwatering and waterlogged soil.
Fertilization
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. does not require heavy fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every other month during the growing season.
It is important not to overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and a decrease in flower production.
Pruning
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. does not require any specific pruning techniques. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new flower growth and maintain a neat appearance.
If the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, it can be pruned back in early spring. Trim back any dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth and maintain a compact shape.
Propagation of Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib.
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. should be sown in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist. The optimal temperature range for germination is between 15-20 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to stratify the seeds in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks before sowing to increase germination rates. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the desired growing location.
Propagation by vegetative methods
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. can also be propagated by division and stem cuttings.
Division: To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy roots and a portion of the crown. The divisions can then be planted in the desired growing location.
Stem cuttings: To propagate by stem cuttings, take a stem cutting that is 5-10cm in length, ensuring that there are at least two nodes present. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep moist. The cutting should develop roots in 3-4 weeks and can then be transplanted into individual pots or the desired growing location.
Disease and Pest Management for Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib.
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla Coville & Leib. is generally a healthy plant species that is not prone to diseases or pest infestations. However, like all plants, it can be affected by some issues. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla, and ways to manage them:
Diseases
There are a few diseases that may affect Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla. These include:
Gray mold (Botrytis cinerea)
Gray mold is a fungal disease that may affect plants, especially in conditions of high humidity and poor air circulation. It appears as a gray, fuzzy mold on the leaves and flowers and may cause them to wilt and die. To manage gray mold, ensure your plants are in well-ventilated areas with good air movement. Avoid overhead watering and remove any infected plant parts as soon as possible.
Black spot (Alternaria brassicae)
Black spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla. It appears as dark, circular spots on the leaves and may cause them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage black spot, remove any infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. You can also use a fungicide if the problem persists.
Pests
Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla may also be affected by a few pests:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of plants, causing them to wilt and curl. To manage aphids, you can try spraying your plant with a mix of water and mild soap to suffocate and remove them. You can also introduce natural predators of aphids, such as ladybugs, to your garden.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails can eat the leaves of Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla, leaving large holes in them. To manage these pests, you can try using traps or barriers to physically keep them away from your plants. You can also use natural predators of slugs and snails, such as birds.
Overall, with proper care and management, Cardamine bellidifolia L. var. pachyphylla can thrive and remain healthy, free of major diseases and pests.
