Overview
Hesperis bicuspidata is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Hesperis, part of the Brassicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hesperis bicuspidata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Hesperis bicuspidata, known as violet-flowered rocket, is a bushy, deciduous plant within the Hesperis genus, which includes biennial and perennial species with clusters of fragrant four-petalled flowers. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and is suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soils of various types and pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is ideal for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, with interest in spring and summer. Propagation is by seed sown in situ or basal softwood cuttings in spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hesperis
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Hesperis bicuspidata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hesperis bicuspidata
- Propagation
- Seed sown in situ, Basal softwood cuttings in spring
- Pest resistance
- Cabbage caterpillars, Flea beetles, Slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Hesperis bicuspidata?
Hesperis bicuspidata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Hesperis bicuspidata need?
Hesperis bicuspidata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Hesperis bicuspidata hardy in the UK?
Hesperis bicuspidata has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Hesperis bicuspidata?
Seed sown in situ, Basal softwood cuttings in spring.
More in the Hesperis genus
- Hesperis
- Hesperis laciniata
- Hesperis matronalisdame's violet
- Hesperis matronalis 'Cally Dwarf' (d)
- Hesperis matronalis 'Lilacina Flore Pleno' (d)
- Hesperis matronalis 'Variegata' (v)
- Hesperis sibirica
- Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d)