Pennsylvania Bittercress
Cardamine pensylvanica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–16" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
PA
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pennsylvania bittercress is a small, delicate annual wildflower that produces tiny white flowers from spring through early summer. This diminutive native thrives in moist, shaded areas and typically completes its life cycle quickly, disappearing by midsummer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pennsylvania 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.
- Very small size makes it appear weedy
- Annual habit creates bare spots when plant dies back
- Easily mistaken for common lawn weeds
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and flies during the spring months. As an early bloomer, it provides nectar when few other plants are flowering.
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.
Does Pennsylvania Bittercress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.