Also known as Common Water-Cress · Common Watercress · Hundredfold Watercress
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is a fast-growing aquatic perennial herb known for its peppery flavor, rich nutritional profile, and medicinal properties.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
75% intensity
In hot climates, partial shade can prevent scorching. Ensure at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily.
Needs consistently moist to wet conditions.
100% intensity
Can be grown in shallow water or very wet soil. Do not allow soil to dry out.
Clay, Loam, Sand, Silty loam
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.
50% intensity
Ideal growth is between 10-20°C. Can tolerate slightly warmer if kept very moist.
Aquatic
50% intensity
Light feeder, requires minimal fertilization.
25% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength if growth is slow. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Nasturtium officinale thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions. It can be grown in shallow water or very wet soil. Regular watering is crucial, especially during warmer months, to prevent the soil from drying out.
Aim for a moist substrate at all times for optimal growth and flavor.
Regular harvesting of the top leaves and stems acts as a natural pruning method, encouraging bushier growth and preventing the plant from becoming leggy. Cut stems back to just above a leaf node to promote new branching.
This also helps to keep the plant productive for longer periods.
Watercress is easily propagated from stem cuttings or by division. Simply take cuttings of healthy stems, about 10-15 cm long, and place them in water or moist soil. They will root readily.
Mature plants can also be divided and replanted in suitable conditions.
Repotting is generally not a primary concern for watercress as it is often grown in containers or directly in water gardens where it can spread. If grown in pots and it becomes root-bound, repot into a larger container with fresh, nutrient-rich, moist soil, ensuring adequate drainage is still considered if not grown in water.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Where Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Nasturtium |
| Species | Nasturtium officinale |
Similar in genus Nasturtium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
