Brassicaceae
Lesser Swinecress: Ground Cover Plant
Lepidium didymum
An extremely resilient plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soils. Requires little maintenance beyond propagation control.
Every 4 days
Bright indirect
5° - 35°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Lesser Swinecress?
Lesser Swinecress (Lepidium didymum) is a easy-care plant from the Brassicaceae family. Lepidium didymum, commonly known as lesser swinecress or twin-cress, is a fast-growing, prostrate herbaceous plant. It features finely divided leaves and a characteristic pungent odor when crushed. It is considered a ruderal plant, growing easily in sidewalk cracks and wasteland.
Lesser Swinecress grows up to 40cm, spread of 50cm, watering every 4 days, 5°C â 35°C, 30â70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Lesser Swinecress tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Lesser Swinecress is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Lesser Swinecress?
TLDR: Lesser Swinecress needs Bright indirect, watering every 4 days, and temperatures between 5-35°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Lesser Swinecress?
Water regularly, but avoid prolonged waterlogging.
How Much Light Does Lesser Swinecress Need?
Thrives best in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Lesser Swinecress?
Prefers light, sandy soils but adapts well to compacted soils.
What Pot Should You Use for Lesser Swinecress?
Wide, shallow pots or direct planting in the ground.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
What Is Lesser Swinecress and Where Does It Come From?
Lepidium didymum, commonly known as lesser swinecress or twin-cress, is a fast-growing, prostrate herbaceous plant. It features finely divided leaves and a characteristic pungent odor when crushed. It is considered a ruderal plant, growing easily in sidewalk cracks and wasteland.
How to Propagate Lesser Swinecress?
Direct sowing
- Seeds germinate easily in almost any type of soil.
- 1 Soil preparation
Clear the area of weeds and lightly turn the soil surface.
- 2 Sowing
Scatter the seeds over the surface, as they are very small.
- 3 Initial watering
Keep the soil moist with a spray bottle until germination occurs.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Lesser Swinecress Grow?
TLDR: Lesser Swinecress can reach up to 40cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
40cm
Spread
50cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Medicinal Uses
- Treatment of digestive issues
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Topical use for wound healing
Culinary Uses
- Salads
- Seasonings
- Watercress substitute
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Resilience and folk healing.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | â |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | â |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
