Common Pepperweed
Lepidium densiflorum
- Native to:
- Canada, Labrador, Mexico, Prince Edward I., Virgin Islands
iNaturalist: © blacknbluesa1 (iNaturalist #160206180)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Brassicaceae
- Genus:
- Lepidium
- Species:
- Lepidium densiflorum
- USDA Symbol:
- LEDE
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Annual | Biennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- apr,may,jun,jul,aug
- Bloom Colors:
- white
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Checkered White (Pontia protodice), Paramidea midea, Western white (Pontia occidentalis)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, small mammals
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Salt Tolerant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- poor, sandy, well-drained soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- commonly found in disturbed areas
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 7–21 days
- Notes:
- Seeds germinate readily after cold stratification; surface sow and keep moist.