About
A compact annual to 30cm tall grown for its edible, tangy leaves that can be eaten raw in salads or cooked; in hot summer months, plants may bolt quickly bearing heads of small white flowers.
About the genus
Diplotaxis is a genus containing species of varied habit, from compact perennials to larger woody plants. Members are valued in horticulture for their flowers, foliage, or overall form and are found in diverse habitats worldwide
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand, Chalk, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moderately-fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Sow sucessionally for a constant supply of edible leaves and can also be grown as a cut-and-come-again crop. For more information see rocket cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to flea beetles, slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free