Cochlearia officinalis
common scurvygrass
A native UK semi-evergreen perennial reaching 15 to 40 cm in height. It has a sprawling habit with succulent, spoon-shaped leaves that range from dark green to reddish-purple. From April to May, it produces mildly fragrant white flowers, sometimes tinged with mauve or purple. Historically, its high vitamin C content made it valuable in preventing scurvy among sailors
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Matforming
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NW Eur., Alps
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well drained soil in full sun, requires minimal cultivation; thrives in saline environments with adequate moisture
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seeds outdoors
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.