Cochlearia officinalis
Löffelkraut
Common names: Echtes Löffelkraut, Skorbutkraut
Photo: Brandt, Wilhelm; Gürke, M.; Köhler, F. E.; Pabst, G.; Schellenberg, G.… · Public Domain · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
Cochlearia officinalis, commonly known as Löffelkraut, is a biennial to perennial wild vegetable in the Brassicaceae family that grows along coasts and moist sites. Its spoon‑shaped, fleshy leaves taste mildly peppery, similar to garden cress, and are rich in vitamin C. Historically it was used by sailors as a scurvy remedy when fresh produce was scarce. In the garden it thrives best in a cool, consistently damp location.
Care instructions
Cochlearia officinalis prefers loose, humus‑rich soil that never dries out completely; water regularly and generously when dry. Sow from March to April or in late summer from August directly into the bed; week 12 to 16 of the year is a good starting point. A semi‑shaded to sunny spot with even moisture produces tender, mild leaves; harsh midday sun dries the soil too quickly. Harvest outer leaves continuously once the plant has formed a small rosette, as it will regrow. The plant is frost‑hardy and requires no special protection in winter.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
moist, humus-rich, nutrient-rich, sandy
Feeding
Medium feeder
Companion planting
Good neighbors
legume family (Fabaceae)
particularly well establishedLeguminous plants collect nitrogen in the soil, from which Brassicaceae benefit as heavy feeders.
For example PeaBush beanPole beanBroad beanMarker peaSugar pea and 31 more species in the catalogue
Source: classic companion planting (DACH-Gartenpraxis)
carrot family (Apiaceae)
You can pair celery and dill with all Brassicaceae because they repel the cabbage whitefly with their scent, a proven companion.
For example Carrotcelery rootDillParsleyCarrot fennelCoriander and 19 more species in the catalogue
Source: Bio-Gärtnerei Mixed-culture Practice
mint family (Lamiaceae)
You will notice that the intense scent of basil, thyme, and others confuses the cabbage whitefly and keeps it away from the cabbage family.
For example LavenderThymeBasilRosemarySageHyssop and 31 more species in the catalogue
Source: bio-gardening intercropping practice
nasturtium family (Tropaeolaceae)
Nasturtium serves as a trap plant for you. Aphids and cabbage whiteflies prefer it over the brassicaceae next to it.
For example Tropaeolum majusMashua
Source: Trap plant practice in organic horticulture
Companion planting is partly traditional gardening lore. Where the reason is known, it is given.
Some of these explanations were machine-translated.
Notes from real gardens
What other gardeners have written down about this variety, anonymous and voluntary.
No notes shared yet. Will you be the first to write one down?