Heart-leaf bittercress

A charming and vigorous evergreen perennial that is perfect for the wetter areas of a woodland garden or a shady stream margin. It forms low mounds of glossy, dark green, rounded leaves that resemble those of the European Wild Ginger. In spring, it is smothered in clusters of pure white, four-petalled flowers that stand out beautifully against the dark foliage. This plant is particularly useful in the UK for colonising damp, shaded ground where other plants might rot. It is fully hardy and spreads moderately via short runners, making it an effective but non-invasive groundcover. It prefers consistently moist, even boggy soil and will struggle in dry conditions. For gardeners with a north-facing aspect or a damp woodland floor, this Cardamine provides a bright, refreshing display early in the season. It is also an excellent source of early nectar for pollinators emerging from hibernation. clean, crisp appearance makes it a lovely companion for primroses.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist to boggy soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.