Horseradish Horseradish Description. Horseradish is a root crop of the crucifer family which has an oil that contains the sulfur compound allyl isothycyanate. This compound imparts the strong pungent odor and hot, biting flavor to the root. Roots are carrot-like in shape, usually rough and white to cream colored. The plant may grow to a height of 3 feet.
Leaves have no culinary value and contain a slightly poisonous compound.
Horseradish plants grow well in Texas in fertile, well-drained soils. They are propagated by planting pieces of side roots that are taken from he main root following harvest and stored in moist sand in a cool cellar through the winter. Plant the roots in late winter or early spring. Horseradish is difficult to eradicate and can become a weed once it is established. New plants regenerate from root bits left in the soil.