Watercress, Onerow yellowcress

Nasturtium microphyllum

Physical Characteristics

Nasturtium microphyllum 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. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil and can grow in water.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, to W. Asia.

Habitats

Pond; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Leaves - raw or cooked[2, 5, 7, 9, 16, 27]. Exceptionally rich in vitamins and minerals, especially iron[200]. The leaves are mainly used as a garnish or as an addition to salads, the flavour is strong with a characteristic hotness[183]. The seed can be sprouted and eaten in salads[183]. A hot flavour. The seed is ground into a powder and used as a mustard[46, 183]. The pungency of mustard develops when cold water is added to the ground-up seed - an enzyme (myrosin) acts on a glycoside (sinigrin) to produce a sulphur compound. The reaction takes 10 - 15 minutes. Mixing with hot water or vinegar, or adding salt, inhibits the enzyme and produces a mild but bitter mustard[238].

Medicinal Uses

Antiscorbutic Diuretic Expectorant Purgative Stimulant Stomachic Antiscorbutic, diuretic, expectorant, purgative, stimulant, stomachic[4, 9, 21, 46]. Use with caution[21].

Known Hazards

None known