Hoary Cress, Whitetop, Hoary White Top, Thanet Cress, White Weed
Cardaria draba
🌿 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 not typically cultivated in permaculture, Whitetop's aggressive growth can be utilized as a pioneer species for disturbed soil stabilization. Its high biomass production could be incorporated into composting systems or green manure, although caution must be taken to prevent its spread due to its invasive nature. No significant edible or medicinal uses are commonly reported.
Permapeople description
Cardaria draba, synonym Lepidium draba, is a plant in the family Brassicaceae, native to Western Asia and Eastern Europe, and widely naturalized elsewhere. Common names include hoary cress, whitetop, and heart-podded hoary cress.
Botanical description
Cardaria draba, commonly known as hoary cress or whitetop, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family (mustard family). It typically grows to a height of 10-50 cm (4-20 inches). The plant has creeping roots and erect stems covered in grayish-white hairs, giving it a hoary appearance. The leaves are alternate, oblong to lance-shaped, and have toothed margins. The inflorescence is a corymb of small, white, four-petaled flowers. The fruit is a heart-shaped silicle containing two reddish-brown seeds. It spreads aggressively through both seeds and creeping roots.
Companion planting
Cardaria draba is not generally considered a beneficial companion plant. Its aggressive growth and competitive nature make it detrimental to most cultivated crops. It inhibits the growth of other plants by competing for resources like water and nutrients.
Propagation methods
Primarily by seed. Vegetative reproduction is also significant due to its extensive creeping root system, meaning that any root fragment can potentially give rise to a new plant. Division of root masses is possible but generally not recommended due to its invasive nature.
History and traditions
Historically, Cardaria draba has not been widely used in traditional medicine or cuisine. Its presence has largely been noted as an agricultural weed and a nuisance due to its invasive properties. There are limited records of historical or traditional uses beyond its classification as a problematic weed.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs typically from late spring to early summer (May-July). Seed production follows flowering, maturing during the summer months. Active growth occurs during the growing season, ceasing during winter dormancy. Planting and control efforts are most effective in the spring or fall.