Family: Brassicaceae
Common Name: Armoracia rusticana

This perennial herb belongs to the mustard family and has a long history of medicinal use. It forms a rosette of large, tough, toothed leaves, similar to spinach, and a thick, white taproot which is ground and used for culinary purposes, or dried and used in herbal remedies. Horseradish, with its sharp taste, is a delicious accompaniment to roast beef.

Cultivation

Propagate from root cuttings, planted out in spring, about 30 cm (12 in) apart, in a moist, moderately rich soil. Dig the soil to a depth of about 60 cm (24 in) before planting. If the subsoil is very heavy, mix with coarse sand, incorporating organic matter and a supplement of blood, fish and bone. Water well and watch for snails. Allow only one strong shoot to grow. Harvest the root each year, or it will become woody and the plant will tend to become invasive.

Climate

Zone 5.