The leaves of this unusual herb of paracress can be used fresh or dried to season salads, starter dishes (eg Carpaccio), sauces and many meat dishes. Can grow in both the garden and pots making it ideal for the patio or balcony.

An attractive herb in the aster family that can be grown as an ornamental with its red and yellow flowers, that have an unusual effervescent effect in the mouth, popping on the tongue, ideal as a palate cleanser or in cocktails. They are also a natural painkiller and have been used for toothache. Leaves can be used in salads or cooked. In Brazil, they are combined with garlic and chillies as they are said to reduce the heat.

It has a cress like peppery taste which makes it different from the normal Cress varieties. Likes a sunny position with moist, rich soil.

Sow under glass from March until July, planting or moving outside from July.

If you would like a little help and some further information on growing herbs then please see our information sheet GROWING HERBS.

Leek Seeds - Gigante de Inverno find out more

Spinach - Strawberry Spinach find out more

Herb - Hot Mexican Tarragon find out more

Herb - Perilla find out more