Hoary Cress

Latin Name:

Lepidium draba

Manx Name:

Burley lheeah

Season:

April - October

Locations where this species is found:
Port St Mary

Also known as "Whitetop", this plant is not native and is said to have been introduced to Britain during the Napoleonic wars, when soldiers stuffed their mattresses with this plant when fighting in the Netherlands. It grows in large patches and is considered invasive in North America.

The edibility of this plant is somewhat debatable. A study carried out in India found that this plant contains hydrogen cyanide, but many sources suggest that it is safe to eat in moderation. I would recommend erring on the side of caution and avoiding this plant.

The Manx name for this plant is "Burley lheeah", which means "Grey Cress".
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