Organic Wild Rocket - Diplotaxis erucoides

Wild rocket (Diplotaxis erucoides), also known as false rocket or white rocket, is a vine-plant vegetable that grows to a height of 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in). It differs from cultivated rocket in its slower growth and the pronounced fragrance of its leaves. These can be used in salads, alone or mixed (mesclun), or to enhance Italian dishes such as lasagna and pizza—plant in spring or autumn.

Rocket belongs to the Brassicaceae family (formerly known as Cruciferae). This herbaceous plant, with its ternate leaves, will reach a height of 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12in). There is generally a distinction between cultivated rocket, with its broad and tender leaves, and wild rocket, with narrower leaves and a more pronounced fragrance.

In cooking, rocket leaves are consumed in salads, either alone or mixed (mesclun), and they add flavour to Italian dishes such as lasagna and pizza. It is a plant rich in vitamin C and iron.

In the vegetable garden, the rocket is not demanding and ideally grows in humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil, although it also tolerates ordinary soils well.

Harvest: Wild rocket can be harvested from May to October. Cut the leaves at ground level, preferably in the morning.

Storage: Rocket leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. To fully enjoy their fragrance, we recommend consuming them freshly picked.

Gardener's tip: Flea beetles, tiny beetles, are fond of rocket leaves and meticulously puncture them in dry and hot weather. While spraying tansy infusion can limit the damage, using insect netting is the most effective method of control, avoiding using insecticides that, even if of natural origin, have consequences on the garden's balance.