SafePlants

Cardamine parviflora: Sand Bittercress

Cardamine parviflora, commonly known as sand bittercress or small-flowered bittercress, is a flowering plant with a fascinating distribution and subtle beauty.

Considerations for Pets

• As a common garden weed, Cardamine parviflora may be accessible to pets.

Considerations for Children

• As a common garden weed, Cardamine parviflora may be accessible to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cardamine parviflora L.
• Common Names: Sand bittercress, small-flowered bittercress, bittercress
• Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard Family)
• Synonyms:
  • C. arenicola
  • C. manshurica
• Subspecies: Cardamine parviflora var. arenicola

Distribution and Habitat

• Cardamine parviflora is found in North America.
• It is described as occasional in the southern regions.
• It can grow in various soil types, including loam, sandy, or rocky soils.
• It can be found on dry slopes.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• The plant typically grows to a height of 10 to 25 cm.
• It has a slender taproot and fibrous roots.
• The stem can be simple or branched and lacks hairs.
• It features basal and stem leaves.
• Small clusters of 1/8-inch flowers.

Quirky Facts

• Cardamine parviflora exhibits an explosive seed dispersal mechanism.

Similar Species

• Cardamine pensylvanica (Pennsylvania bittercress), which is found on wet ground and stream banks.
• Cardamine hirsuta (Hairy bittercress)

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cardamine parviflora.
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Offers information on North America's native plants.
• Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.