Long Leaved Scurvy Grass
Cochlearia anglica
Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae
What it is like
Cochlearia anglica is a BIENNIAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from April to July, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Muddy shores and estuaries.
Atlantic and North Sea coasts of Europe, including Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves and flower heads - raw. Bitter. Used as a flavouring in salads. The leaves are very rich in vitamin C, though very few people will actually enjoy the pungent flavour. Used as a spice (the part used is not specified).
Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Vitamin C: Plants good for their vitamin C content
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a cool shady position. Grows well on acid or calcareous soils but it avoids shady positions in the wild. Prefers a sandy or gritty well-drained soil. Hybridizes with C. officinalis.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2 - 3 weeks at 15°c.
Best place to grow: Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Biennial/Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist, wet