Cochlearia danica
Cochlearia danica
Danish scurvygrass
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Taxonomy
Family Brassicaceae · Genus Cochlearia
Description
Cochlearia danica, known as Danish scurvygrass, is a tiny, salt-loving coastal brassica that forms low rosettes and bursts with small white spring flowers. Tough and fast-growing, it thrives in seaside or road-salt conditions, self-seeds politely, and adds a fresh, natural look to coastal and rock gardens.
Common Names
Danish scurvygrassSea scurvygrass
Context
nativeRegion
Atlantic coasts of northern and western Europe (British Isles, Scandinavia, North Sea coasts); now common along salted roads inland.
usdaZones
5-8
companionPlants
Armeria maritima (sea thrift), Silene uniflora (sea campion), Plantago maritima (sea plantain), Festuca rubra (red fescue)
culturalUses
Historically eaten by sailors to prevent scurvy (vitamin C–rich leaves); occasional culinary use in salads or pickles; model species for studying road-salt colonization.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to partial sun; best flowering in full sun.
WateringKeep evenly moist but well-drained. Tolerates brief drought once established; avoid waterlogging.
SoilSandy or gravelly, well-drained soils; neutral to alkaline preferred. Very tolerant of salinity and poor soils.
FertilizerGenerally unnecessary; a light compost top-dress in spring is sufficient. Avoid rich, high-nitrogen feeding.
HumidityAverage outdoor humidity; tolerates sea spray. No special indoor humidity needs.
TemperatureHardy in cool-temperate climates (approx. USDA 5–8). Tolerates frost; prefers cool summers and may struggle in prolonged heat.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitLow, rosette-forming annual to short-lived biennial/perennial herb.
Mature Size2–15 cm tall, 10–25 cm spread.
Growth RateFast.
BloomingSmall white, four-petaled flowers in spring to early summer (often April–June).
DormancyIn cold climates, rosette may die back; plants often complete life cycle after seeding. Semi-evergreen in mild winters.
Propagation
MethodsSeed (direct sow or trays), Self-seeding
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonAutumn in mild climates or early spring; light aids germination; brief cold period can improve germination.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningDeadhead to limit self-seeding or leave to naturalize. Trim spent stems to keep rosettes tidy.
RepottingIf container-grown, refresh gritty mix annually; shallow pots work well due to modest roots.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free; may attract flea beetles or cabbage aphids. Avoid waterlogged soils to prevent rot; brassicas can be susceptible to clubroot.
ToxicityNon-toxic and edible; however, avoid consuming plants collected near roadsides due to salt and pollutant accumulation.
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