scurvy grass

Plant found growing in salt marshes and on banks by the sea in the northern hemisphere. Shoots may grow low, or more upright, up to 50 cm/20 in, with fleshy heart-shaped lower leaves; the flowers are white and have four petals. The edible, sharp-tasting leaves are a good source of vitamin C and were formerly eaten by sailors as a cure for the disease scurvy. (Cochlearia officinalis, family Cruciferae.)