Cardamine heptaphylla aka Pinnate Coralroot

Taxonomy

Cardamine heptaphylla, commonly known as pinnate coralroot, is a species of flowering plant in the family Brassicaceae. It is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to about 45cm and forms spreading clumps from succulent rhizomes. The leaves are divided and tooth-edged, and they are topped by clusters of chalk-white, four-petalled flowers in mid- to late spring. This genus of plants, Cardamine, consists of herbaceous perennials with simple, palmately or pinnately divided leaves. The flowers of Cardamine heptaphylla are short racemes of 4-petalled white, yellow, pink, or purplish blooms that appear in spring or summer. Overall, Cardamine heptaphylla is a beautiful plant that adds charm to gardens with its delicate flowers and attractive foliage.

Common names

Pinnate Coralroot, Bitter Cress, Lady's Smock

How to care for Pinnate Coralroot

Difficulty

Pinnate Coralroot is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Pinnate Coralroot should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Pinnate Coralroot, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Pinnate Coralroot with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Pinnate Coralroot from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Pinnate Coralroot regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Pinnate Coralroot will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Pinnate Coralroot prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Pinnate Coralroot to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Pinnate Coralroot is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Pinnate Coralroot’s native range is Western and Central Europe.


More info:
Wikipedia