Watercress (Nasturtium Officinale) seeds are grown for both a culinary and medicinal herb. It is a succulent, leafy plant that thrives in marshes, bogs and water gardens. The lobed leaves can be eaten raw, cooked or dried. They have a pungent flavor and are crisp.
It needs to be harvested before the buds appear as the leaves turn bitter after flowering. It is a fast-growing plant that prefers partial shade. It produces white flowers in mid-summer which are very attractive to bees. Watercress plants are highly ornamental.
Herb Specifications
Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 5 - 11
Height: 12 - 24 inches
Bloom Season: Late spring to mid summer
Bloom Color: White
Environment: Partial shade
Soil Type: Varying soil types as long as they are saturated, pH 6.5 - 7.5
I do not have an indoor garden so I am waiting until spring to plant. I will try planting closer to Feb or March in small pods watering with spray bottle, and slowly introduce the plants to outdoor conditions.