Douglass' Bittercress
Cardamine douglassii
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Douglass' Bittercress as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–20" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, IA, IL and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Cardamine douglassii is a delicate spring wildflower that produces small white or pale pink flowers in April and May. This low-growing native perennial forms compact clumps with attractive compound leaves and thrives in partially shaded garden areas with average moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Douglass' Bittercress takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant by mid-summer leaving bare spots
- Can appear weedy or wild to unfamiliar observers
- May spread unpredictably through self-seeding
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide nectar for native bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. This plant serves as a host for several butterfly species including the West Virginia White.
Common questions
- How much sun does Douglass' Bittercress need?
- Douglass' Bittercress grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Douglass' Bittercress bloom?
- Douglass' Bittercress blooms in April and May.
- Where is Douglass' Bittercress native?
- Douglass' Bittercress (Cardamine douglassii) is native to AL, CT, IA, IL and 17 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Douglass' Bittercress toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Douglass' Bittercress as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Douglass' Bittercress attract?
- Douglass' Bittercress draws bees and beetles.
- Is Douglass' Bittercress HOA-friendly?
- Douglass' Bittercress takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Douglass' Bittercress? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz