Rocket

Eruca vesicaria ssp. sativa

Eruca vesicaria ssp. sativa or Rocket. Has deeply divided foliage with pale yellow flowers with violet-veined petals in summer. The pods has an apical beak, containing several seeds. Rocket is often used in salads and in a variety of food. It is also used for medicinal purposes. Harvest rocket when the leaves are large enough. The flowers can be harvested as soon as they appear, and the seed pods while young and juicy. Plant rocket in well composted, rich, moist soil, preferably fertilised with an organic fertiliser. It does not enjoy hot summer climates, therefore plant in a cool, shaded part in summer.