Horseradish
Armoracia rusticana
Also known as
Red Cole , Peperwortel (Afr.)
Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Frost Hardy
7a
USDA zone
-18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
50cm | Max | 50cm |
30cm | Min | 30cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
Horseradish Overview
Horseradish is used as a spice, grows up to 1.2 meters tall, and is primarily cultivated for its large, white, tapered root. It is a perennial plant with a tapering, fleshy taproot that grows up to 60 cm long and has large basal leaves with toothed margins. The white flowers appear mid-summer to mid-autumn. The intact horseradish root has hardly any aroma but when cut or grated, the broken down enzymes produce mustard oil, which irritates the mucous membranes of the sinuses and eyes. Grated mash should be used immediately or preserved in vinegar for best flavor. Once exposed to air or heat it will begin to lose its pungency, darken in color, and become unpleasantly bitter tasting over time.
Common problems with Horseradish
Generally pest and disease free
Horseradish Companion Plants
Potatoes, Fruit Trees, Yams, Plums
How to harvest Horseradish
The roots can be harvested as needed throughout the season. However, for peak flavour wait to harvest the roots until after the first killing frost. Store the roots in a cool, dark location to avoid spoilage and discolouration.
How to propagate Horseradish
Seed
Sow seeds in spring with a spacing of 50 cm apart and a sowing depth of 5 to 7 cm. Keep moist.
Division
This is the easiest way of propagation. Break the mature, large plant mass into pieces and plant separately.
Special features of Horseradish
Attracts useful insects
The flowers serve as food source to insects.
Attractive leaves
The young leaves are large and green, while mature leaves have many finely divided leaves! Often bth visible on the plant.
Pot plant
Drought resistant
Other uses of Horseradish
Medicinal. Food.
Medicinal
Internal and external bacterial infections can be controlled using horseradish. The roots, when used in their fresh state, can be used to clear sinuses and hay fever.
Edible
The roots are harvested for sources and spices. It is an ideal condiment to beef, pork, sausages and potato salad. The leaves can also be used in a salad.
