Horseradish 2 x Thongs (Armoracia rusticana)

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) forms a large leafy clump that looks like a very vigorous dock, about 60cm (2ft) tall and wide. This long-lived perennial is a member of the cabbage family (Brassicaceae), related to mustard and wasabi, and is fully hardy in the UK. It goes dormant over winter, the leaves dying down in autumn then re-sprouting from the roots every spring.

It is the long, thick roots that are harvested, in late autumn and winter – they are the key ingredient in fiery horseradish sauce, a traditional accompaniment to roast beef. Grated horseradish root will also add a hot, tangy kick to many other dishes, from pasta sauces to dips and coleslaw. 

Horseradish is very easy to grow, thriving in sun or partial shade – so much so that it can be hard to control if grown in the ground and its deep roots can be difficult to eradicate. But don’t let that put you off – simply grow it in a large pot. Then to harvest, just tip it out and take a root (or however many you need) from the clump and replant the rest back in the pot.