Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)

Also known as: Kowhitiwhiti, Teng tongue, Well grass, Eker, Bilure

Frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) is an aquatic perennial native to Europe and Asia. It primarily attracts flies as pollinators. This plant is appreciated for its decorative qualities in water gardens and its capacity to float on the water's surface.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Watercress

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 40 cm

Spread

20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 mm to 2.5 mm

Flower Color

White

Images of Watercress

Quickly Identify Watercress

Watercress can be identified by its floating or submerged leaves, which are pinnately compound with 3-9 leaflets, and its small, white, four-petaled flowers arranged in terminal racemes. The plant has a hollow, upright stem that often roots at the nodes.

Scientific Classification of Watercress

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mustards, capers, and allies

Family

Cruciferae

Genus

Nasturtium

Species

Watercress

Planting and Growing of Watercress

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 12 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

50-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Watercress?

Nasturtium officinale prefers to be consistently moist. Ensure that the soil is saturated but not waterlogged, allowing excess water to drain freely. This maintains the plant's lush growth by emulating its natural aquatic environment.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Watercress? ›

What should I do if my Watercress is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Watercress? ›

How to save an overwatered Watercress? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Watercress?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

This plant flourishes best in an environment with access to partial sun, benefiting from roughly 4 to 6 hours of sunlight. Optimal lighting promotes vigorous leaf development and strengthens plant defenses against pests and diseases.

Preferred Environment ›

Light Intensity Needs ›

Solution for Ideal Sunlight ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Watercress?

Ideal Temperature: 50 ~ 77℉

The optimal temperature range for growing Nasturtium officinale is between 50°F to 77°F. Within this range, the plant can maximize its growth potential, promoting lush foliage and robust plant health. Adequate temperature keeps the physiological processes efficient and helps in thriving metabolism necessary for nutrient uptake.

What Soil is Best for Watercress?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Nasturtium officinale thrives in constantly moist soil. This ensures the plant's roots remain hydrated, allowing for optimal growth and nutrient uptake, crucial for vigorous foliage development. The presence of organic matter in the soil provides essential nutrients that boost growth. It enhances soil structure and improves water retention, key for this water-loving plant. Good drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Ensuring proper drainage maintains a balanced moisture level, supporting healthy root and overall plant growth.

How to Fertilize Watercress?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Nasturtium officinale, it's best to use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Typically, use about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. For slow-release fertilizers, a small handful spread around the base of the plant will suffice, ensuring that nutrients are not overwhelming.

How to Prune Watercress?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by examining your Nasturtium officinale for any signs of withering or yellow leaves, which should be removed promptly. Use a sharp pair of scissors to snip back long stems to encourage bushy growth. Focus on cutting just above a leaf node to stimulate branching. Additionally, regularly harvest the outer leaves — this mimics a slight form of pruning and promotes new leaf production. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Watercress plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring, Early spring

Choose a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil mix to provide necessary support and nutrition. Proper soil preparation can ensure good aeration and moisture retention, which are vital for both seeds and cuttings.

Scatter the seeds lightly on the soil surface and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Sowing seeds at the right depth ensures they have adequate contact with the soil while receiving sufficient light.

Use sterilized pruning shears to cut 2-3 inch long sections from healthy stems. Remove lower leaves and insert the cuttings into moist soil. Maintain high humidity to encourage root development.

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How to Repot Watercress plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Watch for roots emerging from the drainage holes or water taking too long to drain away. These indicators signal that your Nasturtium officinale requires a roomier home. Spring is ideal, providing the plant with a comfortable environment for root expansion before its vigorous growth period.

Pick a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. A pot made from breathable material like terracotta is optimal as it prevents waterlogging and allows the roots to breathe, fostering a healthy environment for Nasturtium officinale.

Choose a loamy, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. This soil type not only retains adequate moisture but also ensures good airflow and nutrient availability, promoting robust growth in Nasturtium officinale.

Toxicity of Watercress

Is Watercress toxic to humans?

While watercress is included as an ingredient in certain dog food formulations, it possesses mild toxicity to various animal species.

Is Watercress toxic to cat?

Every part of the watercress plant (Nasturtium officinale) may pose a mild toxicity risk to cats when consumed. Common symptoms include diarrhea or vomiting. Typically, poisoning from watercress is self-resolving; however, if symptoms persist or lead to dehydration, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Is Watercress toxic to dog?

Watercress possesses a mild toxicity for dogs. Each part of this plant contains various irritating compounds; consuming it can lead to symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, though usually, mild stomach upset is the primary issue. Dogs might inadvertently consume watercress if they are offered table scraps from a meal that was flavored with it - they seldom seek out these plants in their natural habitat.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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