Scurvy grass, Common scurvy-grass, Spoonwort
Cochlearia officinalis

Family: Brassicaceae

What it is like

A cabbage family herb. It is a bushy plant about 50 cm tall. It spreads 50 cm wide. It can complete its life-cycle in 2 years or grow for several years. The stem is angular and furrowed. The leaves at the base are thick and fleshy. The leaves are spoon shaped. The flowers are small and white. The fruit are almost round pods. They have small reddish-brown seeds.

Where it is found

It is a cold temperate plant. It can grow in cold winter conditions. It grows in salty places. It grows in polar regions. It is best in muddy, sandy moist soils. It is resistant to frost but damaged by drought.

Countries/locations it is found in

Alaska, Arctic, Argentina, Australia, Britain (country/location of origin), Denmark, Europe, Falklands, Faroe Islands, Iceland, Norway, Scandinavia, South Africa, Southern Africa, South America, USA

How it is used for food

The leaves and flower heads can be added to salads, soups and sauces. The juice from the leaves can be added to orange juice. The leaves can be cooked as edible greens.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown by seeds.

Its other names

Local names

Cochleaire, Loffelkresse, Skjorbuksurt, Spoon cress

Synonyms

Cochlearia alpina Sweet; Cochlearia atlantica Pobed.; and several others.