Eruca vesicarra subsp. sativa
Family: Brassicaceae
Common Name: Arugula

Rocket is a popular addition to green salads for its peppery flavor. Although it has been cultivated in Europe for centuries, it has only recently become well known in other parts of the world. The seeds are processed into an oil which is a good substitute for rape seed or canola oil. The plant can grow up to 60 cm (24 in) high, but is usually harvested for salads when the leaves are young and tender. The leaves are deeply lobed and, if flowers are allowed to develop, these are creamy yellow, with purplish veins. It is grown as an annual, but can be overwintered in very warm regions.

Cultivation

Sow seed in spring or autumn, the first leaves being ready to harvest after five to six weeks. Plants tend to run to seed if grown through the summer. Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. A light dressing of lime should be added to very acid soils just before sowing. Keep plants growing vigorously with regular watering and by feeding with soluble plant food. Cut or pinch out flower buds as they start to form to keep plants in vegetative growth.

Climate

Zone 7.