Lepidium sativum
persian cress / ornamental cress
Persian cress, a popular choice among floral artists, boasts sturdy branches adorned with countless silvery-green coin-like seed pods, making it an filler in bouquets and wreaths, whether fresh or dried. Not only valued for its ornamental use, but its leaves also offer a mild peppery flavour, a delightful addition to salads. This hardy annual can thrive outdoors, its flower stems maintaining their durability and turning golden towards the end of the season. Lepidium sativum thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding a vibrant green backdrop to cut flower gardens.
How to care for Lepidium sativum:
Use Persian cress fresh or dried. Harvest it when the majority of the flowers have developed seedpods; if picked too early, they may wilt. For drying, hang it upside down in a warm, dry spot until it becomes firm. Best sown successionally every two weeks.
Sowing instructions:
Direct sow from April, shallowly into prepared tilth and cover lightly with 0.5cm (1/4in) soil. Thin when the first true leaves appear to approx 10-15cm (4-6in). Alternatively, sow into pots or trays at 55-65°F (13-18°C), 4-6 weeks before the last frost is expected. Germination will take between 5-10 days. Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors in May. Plants benefit from supports as they grow.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
approx 4500 seeds
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