Horseradish, Czech, Bare Root

Horseradish ‘Czech’ (Armoracia rusticana)

‘Czech’ horseradish is a vigorous, cold-hardy cultivar prized for its pungent, flavorful roots and reliable productivity. Grown for centuries in Eastern and Central Europe, this perennial root vegetable is an essential component of traditional food cultures, known for its heat and bite when freshly grated. In the garden, horseradish is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that thrives in diverse soils and contributes to integrated pest management through its antimicrobial compounds. It’s ideal for homesteaders, food forests, and perennial vegetable beds.

Key Characteristics

• Strong, flavorful roots with culinary and medicinal uses
  The thick, white taproots are harvested in fall and grated fresh for sauces, condiments, ferments, and traditional dishes. Rich in glucosinolates, horseradish acts as a digestive stimulant and has been traditionally used for respiratory and sinus relief.
• Extremely cold hardy and easy to grow
  ‘Czech’ horseradish is adapted to cold climates and overwintering in-ground, resprouting vigorously each spring. It thrives with little attention once established, making it perfect for northern gardens and perennial cropping systems.
• Perennial vegetable for food forests and borders
  Its bold, leafy clump reaches 2–3 feet tall, making it suitable for the herbaceous layer of permaculture systems, especially on the sunny edge of food forests, orchards, and garden borders.
• Supports soil health and pest management
  Horseradish contains natural antibacterial and antifungal compounds. Some growers use it as a trap crop near potatoes and other root vegetables to deter soil pests, or interplant it to support biodiversity.
• Spreads easily—plant with intention
  Horseradish spreads via root fragments, so plant it in a dedicated area or use containment strategies to prevent unwanted expansion. Regular root harvest helps manage spread and keeps plants productive.

Product Details

• Plant type: Perennial vegetable
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Medium; prefers loose, well-drained loam but tolerates clay
• Mature height: 2–3 feet
• Bloom time: May–June (flowering is not necessary for root production)
• Bloom color: White
• USDA Hardiness zones: 3–9

‘Czech’ horseradish brings bold flavor, traditional herbal uses, and perennial productivity to the homestead garden. A must-have for regenerative growers who value multi-functional, resilient crops.