Japanese Horseradish
Wasabia japonica
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Pl. 59E9 — Wasabia japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Japanese Horseradish, scientifically known as Wasabia japonica, is a perennial plant native to Japan, Korea, and Sakhalin. This plant thrives in wet environments with partial sun or shade, making it adaptable to various light conditions. It prefers soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), and grows to about 0.3 meters tall. The edible parts of the plant include its leaves and root, which are commonly used for culinary purposes. Known for its pungent flavor, Japanese Horseradish is valued in both traditional and modern cooking. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow well in a variety of soil types, making it versatile for gardeners in different regions.
Quick answers
What is Japanese Horseradish?
Japanese Horseradish, scientifically known as Wasabia japonica, is a perennial plant native to Japan, Korea, and Sakhalin. This plant thrives in wet environments with partial sun or shade, making it adaptable to various light conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Japanese Horseradish thrives in full to partial sun and requires a consistently wet environment. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This perennial is hardy in zones 7-10 and can grow up to 0.3 meters tall. Propagate through root division or seed sowing. Harvest the leaves and roots for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Japanese Horseradish for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, small-scale planting to get familiar with Japanese Horseradish.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, containers or garden space, potting mix suitable for light and heavy soils.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive. Use containers at least 30 cm deep for roots.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors, then transplant outdoors once established.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to avoid stress from direct sun.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide light to partial shade depending on the season.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune leaves as needed for maintenance; harvest roots after 1-2 years when they are mature.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to provide enough shade, using poor soil drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: Condiment
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native· 1 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (2)JapanSouth Korea
introduced (1)Taiwan
Broader regions
native:Sakhalin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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