Cardamine bulbifera

Coral Root Brassicaceae

A quietly intriguing woodland perennial, Cardamine bulbifera (Coralroot Bittercress) produces delicate white to pale pink flowers above fresh green foliage, with small bulbils forming in the leaf axils—an unusual means of vegetative reproduction. Native to much of Europe and extending eastwards into western Asia, it favours cool, humus-rich woodland soils and dappled shade. The young leaves are edible when cooked, with a mild cress-like flavour, though it is more of a wild-food curiosity than a significant food plant. An excellent choice for naturalistic woodland planting, where its ephemeral character and curious bulbils reward closer inspection.

Height: 30–60cm.

Spread: 20–30cm.

Flowers: April–June.

Hardiness: H5, –15 to –10°C.