Hairy Bitter-cress (Cardamine hirsuta) is a small annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. Also known as Hairy Bittercress or Lamb’s Cress, it is native to Europe and is commonly found in a variety of habitats across the UK, including gardens, lawns, woodland edges, and disturbed areas.

Hairy Bitter-cress typically thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soils and is often found in sunny or partially shaded locations. It is characterised by its small size, with slender stems, pinnate leaves, and clusters of tiny white flowers that bloom from early spring to summer. The plant gets its name from the fine hairs present on its leaves and stems.

As a flowering plant, Hairy Bitter-cress serves as an important food source for various insects, including butterflies, bees, and hoverflies. Its nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators, contributing to the overall biodiversity of its habitat.

Behaviourally, Hairy Bitter-cress is an annual or biennial plant that reproduces primarily through seed production. It spreads readily through seed dispersal, with its seeds dispersed by wind, water, or animals.

Culturally, Hairy Bitter-cress may not have significant cultural references in the UK, but it is appreciated for its role in supporting biodiversity and its contribution to the beauty of natural landscapes.

An interesting fact about Hairy Bitter-cress is its ability to germinate and flower rapidly, often appearing in lawns and gardens soon after soil disturbance or cultivation. Despite its small size, it can form dense mats of foliage, making it a common sight in urban and suburban areas across the UK.