Wasabi Flowers

Wasabi, scientifically known as Wasabia japonica, is a plant native to Japan. It is famous for its pungent root, commonly grated into a green paste and used as a condiment in Japanese cuisine, notably sushi and sashimi. However, another intriguing aspect of the plant lies beyond the well-known root: its flowers. The wasabi plant belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbages, mustard, and horseradish. This family is known for its diverse and often pungent plants; wasabi is no exception.

The wasabi plant flowers in spring produce delicate, white blossoms that emerge in clusters on a stalk rising above the plant’s rosette of leaves. These small and somewhat inconspicuous flowers hold a subtle charm. Each flower comprises four white petals arranged in a cross, a characteristic trait of the Brassicaceae family. The flowers add aesthetic value to the wasabi plant and play a crucial role in its life cycle, leading to the production of seeds for reproduction.

Interestingly, wasabi flowers are edible and offer a mild wasabi flavour, which is less intense than the root but equally unique. They can be used as an attractive garnish or a flavourful addition to salads and sushi, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of spiciness. In addition to their culinary uses, the presence of wasabi flowers in a garden can attract beneficial insects, contributing to the ecological balance by promoting pollination.

Cultivating wasabi is known to be challenging, requiring specific conditions, including shade, high humidity, and clean running water. These stringent requirements make wasabi a prized and somewhat rare plant outside of its native habitat. The cultivation of wasabi, including the care for its flowers, embodies a deep understanding of and respect for nature that is characteristic of Japanese horticulture.

The flowers of the wasabi plant offer a less-known but equally fascinating aspect of this versatile plant. With their delicate beauty and unique flavour, wasabi flowers exemplify Japanese culture’s intricate connections between culinary traditions, horticulture, and ecology. They remind us of the importance of appreciating the entire plant, not just the most commonly utilised parts.

 

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Everything you need to know about Fresh Wasabi

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wasabi superfood fresh wasabi rhizomes

At Wasabi Crop, we ensure that each wasabi rhizome, known as wasabi root, is trimmed and fresh. Once we receive an order, we harvest the rhizomes and vacuum pack them for freshness.  When you receive your wasabi rhizome, please remove it from the vacuum packaging and rinse it well under cold running water.  Next, wrap […]

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Mastering Wasabi Cultivation in the UK: Growing and Caring for Your Own Wasabi Plants

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growing real wasabi in the polytunnel

Wasabi, the vibrant, fiery condiment traditionally associated with Japanese cuisine, is increasingly popular among UK gardeners seeking a culinary challenge. Despite its notorious difficulty to grow, with the right conditions and care, wasabi can thrive in the UK’s climate. This guide explores the essentials of mastering wasabi cultivation and maintaining wasabi plants, from selecting the

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Growing wasabi in your garden

Wasabi Insights / , , / By
wasabi plant growing in the garden

Growing Wasabi plants outdoors will commence with the starts being sold ‘bare-root’, thus negating the necessity for shipping them in compost-containing pots, which would incur higher costs. Throughout the transit process, the plant relies on the rhizome for sustenance and energy, facilitating the continued growth of roots and stems from the rhizome. A well-established plant

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