Amoracia rusticana (Horseraddish) 9 cm Pot

Growth habit & appearance: Amoracia rusticana forms a strong, upright clump of large, glossy green leaves with crinkled, slightly toothed margins. The foliage rises from thick, fleshy roots that store the plant’s characteristic pungency. In early to midsummer it sends up tall stems carrying clusters of small white, four-petalled Brassicaceae flowers that attract bees, hoverflies and other pollen-feeders. The plant has a robust, almost architectural presence in the herb garden, driven by both its broad leaves and deep rooting habit.

Growing conditions: Fully hardy throughout Ireland, horseradish thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers deep, fertile, moisture-retentive soil. As a European species long adapted to cool, temperate climates, it grows vigorously in Irish gardens and can spread if not contained. Planting is best done directly into prepared ground once the soil is workable, using the 9 cm pot plant as a starter rootstock that will establish rapidly during its first season.

Traditional & herbal uses: Horseradish root has a long history of use for clearing the sinuses, easing respiratory congestion and stimulating digestion. It has also been referenced traditionally as a circulatory tonic and for mild antimicrobial activity. The pungent compounds released when the root is grated are responsible for both its culinary and herbal significance.

Maintenance & harvesting: To prevent unwanted spread, designate a contained bed or lift and replant pieces every couple of years. Cut back old foliage in late autumn, allowing new leaves to emerge cleanly in spring. Harvest small amounts of root throughout the year once the plant is mature—typically from the second season onwards—by lifting a side root and re-covering the crown. Removing the flowering stems early can help direct more energy into root production. Keep the soil moist in dry spells and apply a yearly mulch to maintain the rich, cool soil conditions horseradish prefers.