Cochlearia scotica
Druce
Northern Scurvy grass
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(c) Marcia Morris, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) Charles F Gunn, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
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Wikimedia Commons - Anne Burgess
Summary
A biennial or perennial herb reaching 0.3 m (1 ft) tall. Flowers appear from May to August, with seeds ripening July to September. The plant is self-fertile and attracts bees, flies, and beetles. It thrives in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acidic, neutral, and basic soils, including saline conditions. Requires full sun and prefers moist soil. Hardy to maritime exposure.
Description
A biennial or perennial herb reaching 0.3 m (1 ft) tall. Flowers appear from May to August, with seeds ripening July to September. The plant is self-fertile and attracts bees, flies, and beetles. It thrives in light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acidic, neutral, and basic soils, including saline conditions. Requires full sun and prefers moist soil. Hardy to maritime exposure.
Edible Uses
The plant is used as a spice. No further details are given about which part is used or how it is prepared.
Medicinal Uses
None known
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
Britain, Europe,
Cultivation
Prefers a cool shady position. Grows on acid or calcareous soils but avoids shady positions. Prefers a sandy or gritty well-drained soil.
Propagation
Sow seed in spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2–3 weeks at 15°c.
Other Uses
None known Special Uses Attracts Wildlife
Synonyms
References (1)
- Michael, P., 2007, Edible Wild Plants and Herbs. Grub Street. London. p 208
