Origin
Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim. is a member of the family Brassicaceae and is native to Japan. It is commonly known as Wasabi or Japanese horseradish and is widely cultivated in both Japan and China. The plant thrives in damp and shady conditions and is commonly found growing on the banks of mountain streams and riverbanks.
Common Names
Eutrema wasabi is commonly known as Wasabi or Japanese horseradish. In Japan, it is called "wasabia japonica" or simply "wasabi," while in China, it is known as "xiang cai."
Uses
Eutrema wasabi is primarily used as a flavoring agent in Japanese cuisine, particularly for sushi. The root of the plant is grated into a paste and mixed with soy sauce to create a pungent, spicy condiment that is served alongside sushi and sashimi. The plant is also used in traditional medicine due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the leaves of the plant are used in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes for their unique taste.
General Appearance
Eutrema wasabi is a perennial herb that grows up to 20-50 cm in height. The plant has a thick, fleshy root that is used for its pungent flavor. The leaves are heart-shaped and glossy, with a striking bright green color. The flowers are small and white, and the plant produces an elongated fruit that contains numerous seeds. The plant has a distinctive spicy taste and a strong scent that is reminiscent of horseradish.
Light Requirements
Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim. is a shade-loving plant that thrives in partially shaded areas. Direct exposure to direct sunlight can cause the leaves to yellow and the plant to wilt. The ideal amount of light for this plant is filtered or diffused light with 40 to 60 percent shade.
Temperature Requirements
Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim. is native to Japan and grows best in cool and damp environments. The ideal range of temperature for this plant is between 7 and 18 degrees Celsius. The plant is tolerant to freezing temperatures but will not survive in extreme heat conditions.
Soil Requirements
Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim. grows best in loose, well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The ideal soil for this plant is rich in organic matter and has good water retention capacity. The soil should not be too dense or compact, and it should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim. requires frequent fertilization to maintain healthy growth. The plant is a heavy feeder and requires a soil that is rich in nutrients. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or a slow-release organic fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Cultivation Methods of Eutrema Wasabi
Eutrema wasabi, commonly known as Japanese horseradish, grows best in cool temperatures between 8 and 20 degrees Celsius. The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Native to Japan, the Eutrema wasabi plant prefers slightly shaded areas and high humidity environments.
Propagation of the Eutrema wasabi plant is best achieved through vegetative means by using rhizomes. Rhizome cuttings are sown in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, and kept in a moist environment until the roots are established. After which, they can be gradually moved to a permanent position in rich, well-prepared soil.
Watering Needs of Eutrema Wasabi
The Eutrema wasabi plant has high water needs and requires adequate moisture for healthy growth. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. During periods of high temperatures and low humidity, the plant requires more frequent watering to maintain moisture levels.
Fertilization of Eutrema Wasabi
Eutrema wasabi requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer throughout its growing cycle. Fertilization should be done monthly with a low concentration, high-nitrogen fertilizer applied to the soil. You can also use compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients to the plant.
Pruning Eutrema Wasabi
Pruning of the Eutrema wasabi plant is critical for optimal growth and maintaining an appealing shape. The plant produces flower spikes that can reduce the quality of the rhizomes and foliage. Therefore, regular pruning is needed to remove the flower spikes before they fully develop. Additionally, removing any dead or diseased leaves helps to prevent the spread of diseases through the plant.
Propagation of Eutrema wasabi (Siebold) Maxim.
Eutrema wasabi, commonly known as wasabi, is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Brassicaceae family. While it is native to Japan, it is now cultivated globally as a commercial crop. Propagation of Eutrema wasabi can be achieved through different methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is a viable option, but it is not commonly used in commercial production. The germination rate of Eutrema wasabi seeds is relatively low, and the plants take longer to mature if propagated through this method. Nevertheless, seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown manually in a greenhouse or seedbed.
Division
Division is an effective propagation method for Eutrema wasabi. This method involves digging up a mature plant and separating its roots into several sections or clumps with shoots. These clumps can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the field. It is recommended to divide the plant during its dormant season, which typically occurs during the fall or winter.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another viable propagation method for Eutrema wasabi. It involves taking cuttings from the plant's actively growing shoots and roots, treating them with plant growth regulators, and then planting them in a suitable growing medium. This process can be repeated multiple times to produce more plants from the same parent plant.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is the most advanced and efficient propagation method for Eutrema wasabi. It involves using small tissue samples from the plant and then growing them in a sterile lab environment. This method allows for the mass production of identical plants while providing more control over the growing conditions. However, it requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and facilities.
Disease and Pest Management for Eutrema Wasabi (Siebold) Maxim.
Eutrema Wasabi is a plant that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Pests can quickly infest and damage the foliage and roots, while diseases cause rot and other problems. Therefore, it is essential to have a proper management plan in place to identify and remedy any problems as soon as possible.
Common Diseases
The most commonly seen disease in Eutrema Wasabi plants is root rot, caused by the fungus Pythium ultimum. Root rot can be fatal and develops when the plant is overwatered, and the soil is poorly drained. To avoid root rot, plant the wasabi in well-drained soil and only water when needed.
Another disease that may affect the plant is bacterial soft rot, caused by the bacteria Erwinia carotovora. The bacteria can enter the plant through wounds and cause rot in the stem or leaves. To prevent bacterial soft rot, avoid wounding the plant and remove infected parts as soon as they are noticed.
Blackleg disease, caused by the bacteria Pectobacterium carotovorum, can also affect Eutrema Wasabi plants. The bacteria cause rot in the stem or crown region, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. To manage blackleg disease, remove infected plants immediately and avoid planting in previously infected soil for up to three years.
Common Pests
Eutrema Wasabi plants are susceptible to various pests, including the wasabi aphid, flea beetles, and thrips. Wasabi aphids can cause wilting and stunt growth, while flea beetles and thrips can cause defoliation. Control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
The wasabi root maggot is another pest that may be a problem for Eutrema Wasabi plants. The larvae feed on the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and eventual death. To manage wasabi root maggots, use insecticides or natural predators such as ground beetles.
Conclusion
Effective management of diseases and pests is critical to the success of Eutrema Wasabi cultivation. Early detection and prompt action are essential to prevent infestations from getting out of hand. Proper sanitation practices and careful watering are fundamental to reducing the risk of disease.
