Hoary Cress (Cardaria draba)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Cardaria draba is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pungent leaves are used as a seasoning. — Young leaves and shoots - raw in salads or cooked as a potherb.; A report says that the young leaves contain the toxin hydrogen cyanide, though does not give any more details.; In small quantities this substance is fairly harmless, and has even been recommended as having health benefits, but caution is suggested if you eat these leaves.; The pungent leaves are used as a seasoning.

Habitat & North American Range

A weed of arable fields, it is spreading rapidly in Britain. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)