Water Cress
Nasturtium officinale
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Description
Water Cress (Nasturtium officinale) is a fast-growing, aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It thrives in wet environments, making it an excellent choice for integrating into water-rich systems within agroecology and regenerative agriculture. Water cress serves as a ground cover in food forests, contributing to weed suppression and soil moisture retention. Its dense foliage can act as a living mulch in wetter areas. Historically, water cress has been valued for its high nutritional content, particularly vitamins A, C, and K, and is traditionally used in salads, soups, and sandwiches. In a food forest, it functions as a ground layer plant and can be paired with taller, water-loving species such as willows or alders, which provide partial shade and additional moisture retention.
Growing Details
Water cress thrives in sunny locations with ample water. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, provided the soil remains consistently moist. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve water retention. Mulching with straw or grass clippings helps maintain moisture levels. Companion plants include mint and chives, which can deter pests. Avoid planting near plants that prefer dry conditions. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent flowering,
Edible Parts
Leaves
Stem
Flowers
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Winter Edible
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Nasturtium officinale</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of February
Indoor Start:
beginning
of February
Transplant:
middle
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Water cress leaves and stems are edible and commonly used fresh in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. They can also be cooked in soups and stews, imparting a peppery flavor. The leaves are best harvested before flowering to avoid bitterness.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, water cress has been used for its diuretic and expectorant properties. It contains antioxidants and is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects. The leaves can be used in herbal teas or tinctures, but should be consumed in moderation due to potential goitrogenic effects.
health concerns: Water cress should be washed thoroughly to remove any contaminants from water sources. It contains goitrogens, which may interfere with thyroid function if consumed in large quantities. Individuals with thyroid issues should consult a healthcare provider before regular consumption.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Nasturtium officinale
common names: Water Cress; Garden Cress; Yellow Cress
family: Brassicaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Nasturtium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 20ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Water cress thrives in sunny locations with ample water. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, provided the soil remains consistently moist. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve water retention. Mulching with straw or grass clippings helps maintain moisture levels. Companion plants include mint and chives, which can deter pests. Avoid planting near plants that prefer dry conditions. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent flowering,
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and snails. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use copper tape or crushed eggshells around plants to deter snails. Companion planting with garlic or marigolds can help repel pests. Neem oil or garlic spray can be used as an organic pest control method.
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