322B-3-Rorippa-dictyosperma-KH.jpg

Rorippa dictyosperma

Forest Bitter-cress

Erect perennial herb.

Additional information

  • SynonymCardamine dictyosperma
  • FamilyBrassicaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.3-0.9 m high
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesRosette of large bright green fern-like basal leaves, to 20 cm long, large terminal lobe, few oblong side lobes; stem leaves smaller, lance-shaped, becoming entire towards flowerhead.
  • Flower colourWhite
  • Flowering timeSeptember to February
  • FlowersTerminal flower spike of stalked flowers with 6 stamens, spring-summer. Erect, narrow, straight or slightly curved pods, lengthening, 15-60 mm long.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsMoist soils in forests. Often appears after fire or other disturbance. Semi-shade to dappled shade.
  • Garden useMoist sheltered areas and wetlands. Need to propagate by seed to maintain this plant.
  • Commercially availableNever
  • Conservation statusRestricted distribution. More common after a disturbance event.
  • Aboriginal Use Food - leaves
  • Related speciesRorippa laciniatum is a similar species which may have a rare occurrence within the Shire. Basal leaves are narrower, lobed, toothed or entire to 10 cm with short hairs scattered on margins, few stem leaves are narrow. Flowers smaller with 4 stamens.
Photographer/s: Ken Harris ©

Plant Communities

  • 04 Alpine Ash Montane Wet Forest (EVC 39)
  • 44 Grassy Wetland Complex (EVC 125)
  • 05 Mountain Ash Forest - Central Highlands (EVC 30)
  • 39 Sedge Wetland Complex (EVC 136)
  • 06 Mountain Ash Wet Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 30)
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