Crambe maritima
Plant Details
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Permeable, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Neutral Basic
Half shade, Sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Flowers, Root
Bee plant, Ground cover
Description
Young leaves of this plant, which can be eaten both raw and cooked, have a pleasant, almost nutty flavor. They are well-suited for mixed salads and are very tasty as cooked vegetables. Note that older leaves can become bitter and less pleasant. The young shoots are also edible, both raw and cooked. These are available in the spring and have a delicate nutty flavor with a crunchy texture. Blanching the shoots is often recommended, and they can be prepared like asparagus. When cooked, they retain their crunchiness and have an appealing flavor that resembles hazelnuts, with a slight bitterness. The root of this plant can be boiled and is rich in starch and sugars. The young flower buds can be eaten both raw and cooked. These buds are harvested when they are about 10-15 cm long and before the flowers open. They can serve as a type of sprouting broccoli.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Asparagus officinalis Asparagus, Garden asparagus |
Asparagus can benefit from the nutrient-rich environment created by Crambe, while Crambe can be shaded by asparagus, helping both plants thrive. |
|
Malus domestica Apple |
The apple tree provides shade and wind protection for Crambe, while Crambe can help suppress weeds in its vicinity. |
|
Prunus domestica Plum |
Plum trees can offer dappled shade that benefits Crambe's growth while the plum tree roots benefit from the moisture retention of Crambe. |
|
Fagus sylvatica Beech |
The beech tree's shade can protect Crambe from extreme sunlight, while its deep roots can improve soil structure. |
|
Tilia cordata Small Leaved Lime |
Linden trees provide shade and help with moisture retention, benefiting the growth of Crambe in drier conditions. |