Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)

Common Names of Horseradish:

Horseradish, Red Cole.

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Description of Horseradish:

Horseradish has tall dock-like leaves reaching up to 1m. The leaves are shiny with a wavy-toothed edge. The flower stalk bears white cruciform flowers with a distinctive odour when crushed.

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Habitat of Horseradish:

Well established in Britain, Horseradish is native to Asia. Commonly found on waste ground, woodland edges, and by the coast.

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Identification of Horseradish:

Possible lookalikes include many Docks (Rumex) genus, but Horseradish leaves are shiny, unlike the matt leaves of docks. Horseradish has a distinct wavy-toothed edge.

The root is a large, white, tapered root, emitting a familiar aroma when grated or chopped.

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Food Uses of Horseradish:

Young leaves can be added to salads, eaten raw or cooked as a potherb.

The fresh roots, vest harvested in early winter, are used in sauces, powders, and vinegars to flavour meats, vegetables, and pickles. Popular as a sauce for roast beef, steaks, and smoked fish.

The flavour of the sauce can be overpoweringly hot for some.

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Medicinal Uses of Horseradish:

Used in herbalism for various conditions, including skin redness, digestive disorders, chest infections, arthritis, and urinary tract infections.

Has been researched for potential anti-tumour properties. Caution is advised due to potential skin blistering and toxicity in large quantities.

Excessive doses may cause gut irritation, diarrhoea, night sweats, or skin irritation.

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Safety Notes - Horseradish:

Contains volatile oils and can be poisonous in large quantities. Caution for pregnant or lactating individuals, those with hepatitis, acid reflux, thyroid disorders, hyperacidity, and inflammatory bowel disorders.​

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Other Uses of Horseradish:

• A solution from the root can treat fungal diseases like brown rot in apples. Used as a companion plant to deter potato eelworm.

• Harvesting Horseradish root without permission is prohibited under the Theft Act.

 

Importance to Other Species - Horseradish:

• Provides a food source for pollinators and the larvae of some butterflies.

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Other Information - Horseradish:

• The English name 'horseradish' means 'coarse radish.' It was introduced to Britain before the 15th century and is widely distributed, sometimes considered naturalized due to cultivation.