Raphanus maritima

Sm.

Sea Radish

Brassicaceae Edible: Flowers, Leaves, Root, Seedpod

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Ans Gorter

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Ans Gorter

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University of Colorado Museum of Natural History Herbarium Vascular Plant Collection (COLO-V)

Description

Raphanus maritima is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Edible Uses

Young leaves - raw or cooked as a potherb. A somewhat hot taste. Root - cooked as a potherb or used as a substitute for horseradish. Flowers - raw. A nice addition to salads. Young seedpods - raw. Crisp and juicy, they must be eaten when young because they quickly become tough and fibrous.

Distribution

Coasts of Europe, including Britain, from the Netherlands to N. Spain, Mediterranean, Black Sea.

Where It Grows

Coming Soon

Cultivation

Prefers a rich soil with ample moisture. Dislikes very heavy soils. The seeds are dispersed by sea-water, in which they can float for 7 - 10 days without loss of viability.