SafePlants

Scurvy-grass (Cochlearia spp. and specifically Cochlearia officinalis)

Scurvy-grass refers to a genus of about 30 species of annual and perennial herbs belonging to the cabbage family, Brassicaceae. The most commonly referenced species is Cochlearia officinalis, also known as Common Scurvygrass.

Considerations for Pets

• Some scurvy-grass varieties are low-growing, which might make them attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is historically known for its medicinal use. While this doesn't necessarily pose a risk, it's wise to supervise children to ensure they don't ingest it.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Cochlearia
• Family: Brassicaceae (also known as Cruciferae)
• Species (example): Cochlearia officinalis (Common Scurvygrass)
• Subspecies (example): Cochlearia officinalis subsp. scotica
• Synonyms: Spoonwort, Scurvy Grass

Distribution and Habitat

• Scurvy-grass species are widely distributed in temperate regions.
• Common Scurvygrass (Cochlearia officinalis) is often found on saltmarshes, coastal cliffs and walls, and rocky areas.
• Danish Scurvy-grass (Cochlearia danica) is traditionally a coastal plant, thriving in salty places like salt marshes and sea shores. It has recently expanded its habitat to roadsides treated with salt for de-icing.
• Cook's Scurvy Grass (L. oleraceum) is found in New Zealand, mainly on offshore islands.
• Cochlearia officinalis s.l. can be found in Northernmost Alaska.

Morphological Characteristics

• Scurvy-grass is a small, low-growing, variable biennial or perennial plant.
• Maximum length of Cochlearia officinalis is about 0.5 meters.
• Flowers are small, with 4 petals, and can be white or pink.
• Leaves of Cochlearia officinalis are small and heart-shaped.
• Basal leaves are long-stalked, rounded to triangular-heart shaped. Upper leaves are stalked, with lower stem leaves having 3 to 7 lobes.
• Fruits are 3-5mm (up to 7mm) and ovoidal.

Ecological Role

• Danish Scurvy-grass (Cochlearia danica) has adapted to thrive in areas with high salt concentrations, such as roadsides treated with de-icing salt. This has led to an increase in its presence along roads in Britain.

Traditional and Historical Uses

• The name "Scurvy-grass" originates from its use as a treatment for scurvy, due to its high vitamin C content. Sailors used it to prevent the disease before the availability of citrus fruits.
• In the 17th century, English physician Robert Turner recommended scurvy grass in ale as a remedy for various conditions.
• It has also been associated with traditional uses against Scrofula.

Quirky Facts

• The text mentions Cochlearia curiosa, suggesting that scurvygrass was once considered a plant with noteworthy curiosities.
• Scurvy grass is used as an ingredient in the Befuddlement Draught.

Further Information

• WebMD provides patient medical information on Scurvy Grass.
• ARKive contains information and photos of Scottish scurvygrass.
• Dictionary.com offers a definition and etymology of "scurvy grass".
• dict.cc provides a German-English translation for Pyrenean scurvygrass.