Horseradish

(Armoracia rusticana)

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Armoracia rusticana, commonly known as Horseradish, is a perennial herb native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, often found in neglected gardens and waste places. It can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall and is cultivated primarily for its large, white, tapered root, which is a popular spice and condiment. The plant features white four-petalled flowers that are scented and borne in dense panicles, typically blooming in the late spring to early summer. Horseradish is known for its vigorous growth and can form extensive patches, potentially becoming invasive if not managed properly.

Horseradish is valued for its pungent root, which is harvested for culinary use. The intact root has little aroma, but once cut or grated, it releases a sharp, spicy flavor that is used to enhance various dishes. It is also appreciated for its early season leaves, which are asymmetric and spiky, before maturing into flat, broad leaves. In cultivation, Horseradish prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil drainage conditions, from slow to fast. It is hardy in zones 2–9 and can be grown as an annual elsewhere. After the first frost, the root is harvested, and offshoots are replanted for the next season. Older, woody roots are not culinarily useful but can be divided to propagate new plants. Care should be taken to control its spread, as it can become invasive through its underground shoots.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-2.5 feet
  • Width: 2.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant

Natural Habitat

Native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, often found in neglected gardens and waste places

Other Names

Common Names: Common Horse Radish, Red Cole, Peberrod, Meerrettich, Piparjuuri, Armoracia À Feuilles De Patience, Raifort, Pepperrot, Mierik, Mierikswortel

Scientific Names: , Armoracia rusticana, Armoracia rustica, Cochlearia armoracia, Armoracia lapathifolia, Nasturtium armoracia, Rorippa rusticana, Cochlearia rusticana, Rorippa armoracia, Radicula armoracia

GBIF Accepted Name: Armoracia rusticana P.Gaertn., B.Mey. & Scherb.