Common Name: |
Meadow Cress |
Other Names: |
Cuckoo Flower, lady's smock. |
Botanical Name: |
Cardamine pratensis |
Genus: |
Cardamine |
Family: |
Brassicaceae |
Native Location: |
N Asia, N America, Europe |
Cultivation: |
Moist soil in sun or partial shade. |
Propagation: |
By seed in autumn or spring; by leaf-tip cuttings in midsummer; by division in spring or after flowering. |
Harvest: |
Leaves are picked in spring and summer, and used fresh in infusions or frozen. |
Variations: |
Edith Has pink buds and double flowers that fade to white. Height: 20cm (8in)
Flore Pleno Has double flowers. Forms clumps and offsets readily. First recorded in the mid-17th century. Height: 20cm (8in) |
Height: |
30-45cm (12-18in) |
Width: |
30cm (12in) |
Hardiness: |
Z3-9 |
Parts Used: |
Leaves |
Properties: |
A tonic, cleansing herb with a high level of vitamin C. It arrests spasms and encourages productive coughing. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for chronic skin complaints, asthma, and hysteria. |
Culinary Uses: |
Young leaves and flower buds are added to salads, sandwiches, and sauces. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 155-156 |