European cornsalad
Valerianella carinata · Caprifoliaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant european cornsalad: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (April to May)
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Light, well-draining, fertile
Care
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist but not waterlogged, especially during spring growth. Moderate and spaced watering is sufficient in winter. In a pot, let it dry slightly between waterings.
Light exposure
Place your keeled cornsalad in a sunny to partially shaded location. It tolerates partially shaded areas well and appreciates bright, indirect light in very hot regions.
Soil
Use a light and well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A mix of universal potting soil with sand or perlite ensures good aeration. Avoid compact soils and waterlogging.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 15 to 20 days during the growing period (spring and early summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in autumn and winter.
Pruning and cutting
Regularly pinch young shoots to encourage a compact and branched form. Remove spent flowers to extend blooming. Cut back lightly after flowering to rejuvenate the foliage.
Diseases and pests
Keeled cornsalad is generally not very susceptible to pests. Watch for powdery mildew in warm, humid weather: improve air circulation and reduce watering. Excess moisture can promote root rot.
Did you know?
Keeled cornsalad is a botanical cousin of lamb's lettuce (Valerianella locusta), that small green salad eaten in winter across Europe. Though not strictly edible itself, it shares the same Caprifoliaceae family, and its delicate leaves remind us of the culinary delights of its relatives. Its name "keeled" refers to the shape of its fruit capsule, which bears a characteristic keel or ridge.
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
- HoneysuckleLonicera periclymenum
- Small scabiousScabiosa columbaria
- Red valerianCentranthus ruber
- Japanese honeysuckleLonicera japonica
- Himalayan honeysuckleLeycesteria formosa
- Involucred honeysuckleLonicera involucrata
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.