Fiveleaf bittercress, Showy toothwort, Five-leaved toothwort
Cardamine pentaphyllos
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
While some Cardamine species are edible, Cardamine pentaphyllos is primarily grown for ornamental purposes in shade gardens. Young leaves might be cautiously used in salads in small quantities, but palatability varies. Its main permaculture utility is as a groundcover in woodland gardens and for attracting pollinators.
Permapeople description
Cardamine pentaphyllos is a perennial herb found in mountainous regions of Europe. It has distinctive five-parted leaves.
Botanical description
Cardamine pentaphyllos is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 12-24 inches. The plant features distinctive palmate leaves divided into five leaflets, giving it its name. Flowers are borne in terminal racemes and are typically pale pink to lavender in color. The plant spreads via rhizomes, forming colonies over time. It thrives in moist, shaded environments.
Companion planting
Cardamine pentaphyllos thrives in the understory of deciduous trees and pairs well with other shade-loving plants such as ferns, hostas, and trilliums. It can be used as a groundcover beneath shrubs. Avoid planting it with aggressive, sun-loving species that might outcompete it.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through rhizome division in early spring or late fall. Seed propagation is also possible, though it can be slower and less reliable. Freshly collected seeds germinate best. Cuttings are not typically used for propagation.
History and traditions
Historically, members of the Cardamine genus have been used medicinally for their purported antiscorbutic properties due to their vitamin C content. Cardamine pentaphyllos, however, lacks significant traditional uses and is primarily valued as an ornamental plant.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs primarily in spring (April-May). Rhizome division is best undertaken in early spring (March-April) or late fall (September-October). Seed sowing is best done in fall for spring germination.