| Wasabi Wasabia japonica Wasabi (Eutrema japonicum, Wasabia japonica ), Japanese horseradish. This species belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is native to Japan . Cultivation: Propagate by seeds and cuttings . Wasabi is difficult to cultivate . Naturally occur in wet, wooded areas with plenty of moisture in the air with well-draining soil and where is right level of light . Wasabi does not do well in direct sunlight . Needs a very shady spot . The soil needs to be kept damp at all times as the plant is regarded as semi-aquatic in its growth characteristics . Wasabia japonica is hardy in the UK . In winter the plant goes dormant and all power of the plant goes down to the root . Wasabia japonica needs 2 years to reach maturity . All parts of the wasabi plant, rhizomes, roots, stems and leaves are harvested, processed for use. Wasabi comes from the same family as cabbages, horseradish, and mustard. Apart from Japan it is very difficult to get a hold of wasabi powder. In Europe the replacement is very popular: a mixture of horseradish, mustard, starch and green food colouring.The main form of wasabi is the powdered root, however it is useful to know, that the leafs and the stalk also contain the same amount of vitamins. The flavour is spicy, stinging, similar to the common horseradish. It is anti-fungal, bactericidal and it increases the secretion of digestive juices , as it contains isothiocyanate. The Isothiocyanates detoxify organisms, they have anti-cancer properties and they favourably affect digestion. They are in all cruciferous plants, however wasabi contains the most! Keep in mind, that isothiocyanates are substances, which evaporate quickly. Therefore, after grating wasabi, the powder should be immediately used. Wasabi leafs are ideal for fresh salads. They give them a slightly spicy, distinct flavour.
Wasabi contains protein, fibre, vitamins B6 and C, and the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium and manganese. Wasabi is necessary in order to prepare sushi and sashimi - which are the main dishes in the Chinese and Japanese kitchen. Due to the Japanese consuming a large amount of Eutrema japonicum, some say, that, wasabi is responsible for the longevity and health of the Japanese people. Japanese folk medicine recommends using wasabi paste with all bone pain! THE PRICE APPLY TO 1 PLANT in 7cm POT. Hardy in the UK ! PERENNIALSEARCH EVERGREENSEARCH ORNAMENTALSEARCH HERBSEARCH MEDPRO CULINARYUSES ZONE9s ZONE10s ZONE11sAll descriptions of the plants posted on our site are for educational purpose only. Any medicinal purposes or health properties in our descriptions are not a medicinal advise! source code owned by SFplants |