Early scurvygrass
Cochlearia danica · Brassicaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant early scurvygrass: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- April to June, white or pale pink flowers
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm tall, 20 to 40 cm wide
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Atlantic coasts and British coasts of Northern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light, tolerates poor and salty soils
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
Care
Watering
Water moderately, especially after planting to establish roots. Once established, Danish scurvygrass tolerates drought well and even withstands salt spray. In containers, check that the substrate dries slightly between waterings. In very dry climates, occasional watering during the growing season is sufficient.
Exposure
Position Danish scurvygrass in full sun for better flowering and compact growth. It also accepts partial shade, particularly in regions with hot summers. Exposure to sea breezes suits it perfectly.
Soil and drainage
Light, well-drained and even poor soil works very well for this coastal plant. It tolerates rocky, stony and sandy soils. Avoid stagnant moisture in winter. In containers, use a draining substrate mixed with gravel.
Fertilizer
Danish scurvygrass thrives in poor soils and requires little fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is ample. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would encourage foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Light pruning after flowering helps maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period. This plant requires little formal pruning and develops naturally into a small regular mound.
Health and pests
Very resistant, it mainly fears excess moisture which can promote root rot. Like most brassicas, it may occasionally be subject to flea beetles in warm climates, but remains generally very hardy and rarely affected by diseases.
Did you know?
Danish scurvygrass has historically been renowned for its vitamin C content: it was consumed by sailors and inhabitants of Northern coasts to prevent scurvy. Its name 'scurvygrass' comes from the Latin cochlear (spoon), as its small fleshy leaves are shaped like a miniature spoon. This tough little coastal herb bravely resists the extreme conditions of Atlantic windswept cliffs.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- CransonArmoracia rusticana
- Sea kaleCrambe maritima
- Mountain AlyssumAlyssum montanum
- Wall rock cressArabis caucasica
- Rocket SaladEruca sativa
- WasabiEutrema japonicum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.