Brown Watercress (Nasturtium x sterile)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Nasturtium x sterile is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to October, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour is strong with a characteristic hotness. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; Water cress is mainly used as a garnish or as an addition to salads, the flavour is strong with a characteristic hotness.; It has a reputation as a spring tonic, and this is its main season of use, though it can be harvested for most of the year and can give 10 pickings annually.; Some caution is advised if gathering the plant from the wild, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Stream margins, ditches, flushes etc with moving water, usually in chalk or limestone areas. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)