Coralroot bittercress (Cardamine bulbifera)

Also known as: Coralwort, Common toothwort, Toothcress

Coralroot bittercress (Cardamine bulbifera) is a perennial plant in the cabbage family, primarily found in mainland Europe and occasionally in the British Isles. The term "bulbifera" in its scientific name highlights its unique propagation method: the plant produces bulbils in the leaf axils, which eventually fall to the ground and develop into new plants.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Coralroot bittercress

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 to 2 cm

Flower Color

Pink Purple

Images of Coralroot bittercress

Quickly Identify Coralroot bittercress

Cardamine bulbifera can be identified by its distinctive bulbils in the leaf axils, its pinnate leaves with 5-9 leaflets, and its purple to pinkish flowers, which appear in spring.

Scientific Classification of Coralroot bittercress

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Brassicales

Family

Cruciferae

Genus

Bittercresses

Species

Coralroot bittercress

Planting and Growing of Coralroot bittercress

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Coralroot bittercress?

Water Cardamine bulbifera thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This species enjoys consistent moisture, so during each session, pour around 150 ml of water until it drips slightly from the bottom of the pot, indicating even distribution.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Coralroot bittercress? ›

What should I do if my Coralroot bittercress is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Coralroot bittercress? ›

How to save an overwatered Coralroot bittercress? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Coralroot bittercress?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun with 4-6 hours of filtered light daily ensures robust growth in Cardamine bulbifera. When provided within this range, the plant benefits from balanced energy intake, leading to a healthy appearance and vibrant green foliage that reflects optimal environmental conditions.

What is the optimal light condition for Cardamine bulbifera? ›

How can I achieve ideal light conditions for this plant? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Coralroot bittercress?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Cardamine bulbifera is between 60°F and 70°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and ensures that the plant's metabolism, photosynthesis, and nutrient uptake processes are functioning efficiently. Maintaining this temperature range can help prevent stress and promote healthy development throughout its life cycle.

What Soil is Best for Coralroot bittercress?

Soil type: Loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cardamine bulbifera thrives in moisture-retentive soils that prevent it from drying out. This characteristic ensures the plant remains hydrated, supporting its lush growth and flower production. While these plants need moisture, they also require well-drained soil to prevent root rot. This balance helps maintain root health and promotes a strong, thriving plant. Nutrient-rich soil provides essential minerals and nutrients that Cardamine bulbifera uses for photosynthesis, growth, and flowering. It’s crucial for maintaining its vibrant appearance.

How to Fertilize Coralroot bittercress?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Cardamine bulbifera, it is important to use a balanced fertilizer. When using liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half the recommended concentration to avoid over-fertilizing. Apply approximately 50-100 ml of diluted liquid fertilizer per plant each time.

How to Prune Coralroot bittercress?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Focus on cutting away dead, damaged, or crossing stems. This cleanup encourages better air circulation and light penetration, vital for the plant's health. Trim the stems to maintain a balanced shape that fits your garden design. This aesthetic pruning will help your Cardamine bulbifera blend harmoniously with surrounding plants. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Coralroot bittercress plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring

Collect seeds from mature Cardamine bulbifera plants, dry them out, and store in a cool, dark place until early spring. Before sowing, seeds may need a period of stratification to enhance germination.

In early spring, sow the prepared seeds in seed trays filled with well-draining soil. Cover lightly with soil and water gently, placing the tray in a sunny location to encourage germination.

In spring, dig up a mature clump of Cardamine bulbifera, taking care not to damage the roots. Divide the clump into smaller sections ensuring each has roots and shoots, then replant in prepared soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Coralroot bittercress plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Cardamine bulbifera in spring or autumn when growth is noticeable and roots start to crowd the pot. If you see roots through the drainage holes or slow growth, it's time to repot.

Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. It should have ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A slightly larger pot gives roots room to expand, ensuring healthy plant development.

Opt for well-draining soil that retains some moisture but never becomes waterlogged. A mixture of loam, peat, and perlite provides the perfect balance for Cardamine bulbifera.