Appearance
Horseradish grows up to 1.5 meters tall, with hairless bright green unlobed leaves up to 1 m long that may be mistaken for docks. It is cultivated primarily for its large, white, tapered root. The white four-petalled flowers are scented and are borne in dense panicles. Established plants may form extensive patches and may become invasive unless carefully managed.Intact horseradish root has little aroma. When cut or grated, enzymes from within the plant cells digest sinigrin to produce allyl isothiocyanate , which irritates the mucous membranes of the sinuses and eyes. Once exposed to air or heat, horseradish loses its pungency, darkens in color, and develops a bitter flavor.
Naming
The word ''horseradish'' is attested in English from the 1590s. It combines the word ''horse'' and the word ''radish''.References:
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