Cardamine quinquefolia

These plants are often synonymous with the word "weed", thus earning themselves a bad reputation. However, that is not the case for Cardamine quinquefolia. This Asian perennial has all the qualities necessary to become an essential plant in spring flower beds.

Not demanding, Cardamine quinquefolia easily grows in the sun but has a clear preference for woodland areas. It spreads through suckers in rich humus soils, quickly forming magnificent carpets of bright pink flowers in late winter. Easily recognisable, its foliage consists of 5 leaflets, which is where it gets its species name "quinquefolia".

In summer, the plant goes into dormancy to protect itself from drought. Spectacular on its own, it pairs well with Tiarella wherryi, Symphytum grandiflorum, or Epimedium x rubrum.