Horseradish Varieties for Home Gardeners: Common vs. Bohemian Types

Choosing the right horseradish variety is the first step toward a productive and flavorful patch. Over decades of growing horseradish in raised beds and containers, I’ve found that variety selection influences root size, flavor intensity, and overall plant behavior. Home gardeners typically choose between common horseradish and Bohemian horseradish, each with distinct advantages.

This guide explains the differences, strengths, and ideal growing conditions for both types, so you can select the variety that fits your garden and culinary goals.

Table of Contents

1. Common Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)

Characteristics

Very pungent, traditional horseradish flavor
Long, straight roots ideal for harvest and culinary use
Aggressive spread underground—requires containment
Hardy perennial; thrives in temperate climates

Best For

Large patches or dedicated garden corners
Traditional recipes and sauces
Experienced gardeners managing long-term growth

Tips for Growing

Space roots at least 18 inches apart
Plant in full sun with rich, well-draining soil
Mulch to maintain moisture and reduce weeds

2. Bohemian Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana ‘Bohemian’)

Characteristics

Milder, slightly sweeter flavor than common horseradish
Shorter, thicker roots; easier to harvest
Less aggressive spread; manageable in smaller gardens
Suitable for containers and mixed beds

Best For

Small gardens or container cultivation
Gardeners seeking milder pungency
Culinary uses where subtle heat is preferred

Tips for Growing

Full sun and fertile soil for best results
Space roots 12–18 inches apart
Harvest slightly earlier for milder flavor

Comparing Common vs. Bohemian

Feature	Common Horseradish	Bohemian Horseradish
Flavor	Very pungent	Mild to moderate
Root Shape	Long, straight	Short, thick
Spread	Aggressive	Moderate
Best Use	Traditional sauces, large patches	Small gardens, containers, milder sauces
Harvest Timing	After first frost	Early fall or frost

Choosing the Right Variety for Your Garden

Large patch or strong-flavored roots: Common horseradish
Small garden or container-friendly: Bohemian horseradish
Beginner gardener: Bohemian is more forgiving
Consistent pungency for sauces: Common is preferred

Personally, I grow both types in my Sonoma Valley garden: common horseradish in a dedicated raised bed for abundant roots, and Bohemian in containers for gifts and small kitchen use.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right horseradish variety sets the stage for a successful, flavorful harvest. Both common and Bohemian types are hardy, productive, and rewarding—but choosing according to your garden space, flavor preference, and care capacity ensures the best results.