Cochlearia officinalis 'Scurvy Grass'

[Ex. Co. Durham, England]

Brassicaceae: biennial or perennial to 50cm, habitats include salt-marshes, coastal walls and cliffs, and mountains inland. The flowers are white 8-10cm across, appearing from April-October. Fruits are rounded, the leaves kidney-shaped. Locally common, mainly found near the coast. Native to western, northern and central Europe, including Britain.

USES:

The leaves can be eaten raw, they have an acrid tarry flavour, and it can be added in small quantities to salads for its high content of vitamin C. Rather less than pleasant to most tastes, though there are occasional people who like.

The herb has antiscorbutic, aperient, disinfectant, diuretic and stimulant properties. This plant was highly valued by sailors of the past and was taken in the diet daily as a preventative for scurvy on long sea trips. Applied externally, the bruised leaves are used to heal ulcers. It is best used when fresh though it can also be harvested in late spring or early summer and dried for later use.

GROWING INFORMATION:

Grows wild on acid or calcareous soils, but it avoids shady positions. Prefers a sandy or gritty well-drained soil. Sow seeds in spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks. Very easy.

HARVESTED: 2022

APPROX. 100 SEEDS