Cochlearia officinalis

RHS Plant Profile
common scurvygrass

Other common names

llwylys cyffredin

Herbaceous Perennial

A native UK semi-evergreen perennial reaching 15 to 40 cm in height. It has a sprawling habit with succulent, spoon-shaped leaves that range from dark green to reddish-purple. From April to May, it produces mildly fragrant white flowers, sometimes tinged with mauve or purple. Historically, its high vitamin C content made it valuable in preventing scurvy among sailors

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Brassicaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
NW Eur., Alps

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well drained soil in full sun, requires minimal cultivation; thrives in saline environments with adequate moisture

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seeds outdoors

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free