Lepidium oleraceum
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Lepidium oleraceum is a PERENNIAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
By the coast on North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young leaves - raw or cooked. A hot cress-like flavour, they can be added to salads or used as a pot-herb. High in vitamin C.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Vitamin C: Plants good for their vitamin C content
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and are not sure if it will be hardy in Britain, though one report says that it has been cultivated for its edible leaves in Britain. Assuming it is hardy, then it is likely to be very easily grown and will succeed in most soils in full sun or light shade.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist