These floors offer value for many reasons, from aesthetics to economy. Today we explore one of them: the wasabi plant (Wasabia japonica or Eutrema japonicum). Native to Japan, it typically grows along streams and rivers. It can also thrive in pots or in a garden with proper care.
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What is wasabi?
Wasabi is a herb also known as Japanese horseradish because it belongs to the same family as horseradish and mustard. Its stem is widely valued in gastronomy, contributing a distinctive, spicy flavor in small quantities, especially when paired with sushi.
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What is the value of the wasabi plant?
The wasabi plant ranks among the priciest herbs on the market. The edible portion is the stem, highly prized in cuisine. One kilogram can reach around 150 euros when purchased in bulk, and prices rise when buying in smaller amounts.
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The high price reflects its water requirements, the need for careful cultivation, and the slow growth that necessitates waiting several years before a usable stem appears for culinary use.
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Right away, buying a wasabi plant (not just the stem for cooking) can be expensive. A single pot may cost around 30 euros. Careful attention is essential to ensure success, and over time stems can sprout suckers you can transplant, providing several plants for home use.
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How long does wasabi grow?
Wasabi grows slowly and demands patience. It typically takes at least two years from planting to harvest.
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Although the stem is the most valuable part, every part of the plant including the root, leaves, and flowers can be used in different culinary preparations.
How to plant wasabi at home?
Growing wasabi at home is challenging, so it is wise to approach the project with patience and realistic expectations.
Wasabi requires a moist, cool environment with steady temperatures and good humidity. Ideal cultivation temperatures run between 12 and 15 degrees Celsius, with humidity kept sufficiently high. A greenhouse helps maintain the right conditions for consistent growth.
How to care for your indoor plants so that they are perfect?
Protect the wasabi greenhouse from direct sun, or place it in a shaded area since it does not tolerate strong sunlight. In its natural habitat, taller plants provide the necessary shade.
The soil should be a blend of an organic fertilizer and a sulfur-rich amendment. Aim for a pH between 6 and 7 and ensure good drainage to keep the plant consistently moist without waterlogging.
Once all conditions are set, transplant the wasabi plant. If seeds are used, keep them consistently moist for a day or two before planting. Soak seeds overnight in distilled water to improve germination. In the morning, place the seeds in soil and press lightly.
How to care for wasabi plant?
After sowing, keep the seeds and soil moist but not flooded. A gentle rinse with fresh water, mimicking stream conditions, supports healthy growth. The plant requires ample water, which also makes it susceptible to fungi and other diseases when air circulation is insufficient.
Because it remains surrounded by a high level of moisture, wasabi must be monitored for potential diseases such as fungal infections.
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You should also keep the planting area clean by removing weeds that steal nutrients and water from the wasabi plant.
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With patience and a touch of luck, the wasabi plant can thrive at home over time, delivering fresh stems for the kitchen after about two years.