What Exactly is the Rocket Plant?
The term 'rocket' generally refers to two primary species within the mustard family (Brassicaceae): Eruca sativa (garden rocket) and Diplotaxis tenuifolia (wild rocket). Both are edible and widely cultivated, though they differ slightly in flavor and growing habits. Garden rocket is the most common variety found in supermarkets, prized for its large, tender leaves and milder, nutty-peppery flavor. Wild rocket, often favored by chefs, features smaller, more deeply lobed leaves with a significantly stronger, spicier flavor. It’s important to know the difference, as wild rocket is a perennial, while garden rocket is an annual that bolts (flowers and goes to seed) much faster in warm weather. Other common names include arugula, roquette, and rucola.
Key Differences: Garden vs. Wild Rocket
Understanding the differences between these two common varieties can help you choose the right one for your garden and palate. While both are delicious, their unique characteristics affect how they are grown and used.
| Feature | Garden Rocket (Eruca sativa) | Wild Rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) |
|---|---|---|
| Growth Habit | Fast-growing annual, typically forming a rosette of large, tender leaves. | Slower-growing perennial, forming a more robust clump. |
| Leaf Shape | Larger, broader, and less deeply lobed leaves. | Smaller, more narrow, and deeply lobed or serrated leaves. |
| Flavor | Milder, nutty, and peppery taste. Becomes stronger and more bitter as it matures. | Stronger, spicier, and more pungent flavor, especially in hot weather. |
| Bolting | Prone to bolting (prematurely flowering) in hot weather. | More heat-tolerant and slower to bolt than garden rocket. |
| Flowers | Creamy white flowers with purple veins. | Bright yellow flowers. |
| Lifespan | Annual; productive for only a few months before bolting. | Perennial; can be harvested for several years. |
All Parts of the Rocket Plant are Edible
One of the most appealing aspects of the rocket plant is its versatility. Most people are familiar with its tender leaves, but its flowers, stems, and seeds are also edible and delicious.
- Leaves: Young, tender leaves offer a mild, delicate flavor, perfect for raw salads. As leaves mature, their flavor intensifies, making them spicier and more pungent. These older leaves are better suited for cooking, which mellows their bite.
- Flowers: The small, four-petaled flowers are also edible and possess a slightly peppery flavor, similar to the leaves. They make a beautiful and tasty garnish for salads, soups, or drinks.
- Seeds: Rocket seeds can be harvested when the pods are papery and dried. In some cultures, they are pressed for oil or used as a mustard substitute.
Culinary Uses for Rocket
Beyond a simple salad green, rocket is a incredibly versatile ingredient in many Mediterranean and global cuisines. Here are some popular culinary uses:
- Salads: The most common use. It pairs well with sweeter flavors like pear, pomegranate, or mango, as well as salty cheeses like feta or parmesan.
- Pesto: A vibrant and peppery alternative to traditional basil pesto. It can be made with rocket, garlic, parmesan, and pine nuts.
- Pizza Topping: In Italy, it's common to add fresh rocket leaves to a pizza after it comes out of the oven. The residual heat slightly wilts the leaves without cooking away all the flavor.
- Cooked Greens: Mature rocket leaves can be lightly cooked, much like spinach, and added to pasta dishes, soups, or stir-fries.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: The zesty leaves add a great flavor and texture to sandwiches and wraps.
Health Benefits of Eating Rocket
As a dark, leafy green, rocket is a nutritional powerhouse. It is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants.
- Rich in Nutrients: Rocket is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and potassium.
- Antioxidant Properties: It contains high levels of antioxidants like glucosinolates, which have been studied for their potential in preventing cancer.
- Promotes Bone Health: The combination of vitamin K and calcium supports strong and healthy bones.
- Aids Digestion: Rocket is a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy bowel movements and can help prevent constipation.
- Reduces Inflammation: The antioxidants in rocket help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
Growing and Harvesting Your Own Rocket
Rocket is an easy plant to grow, thriving in pots or garden beds. For a consistent supply of tasty leaves, consider these tips:
- Sow in Succession: Sow small batches of seeds every few weeks during the cooler seasons (spring and autumn) to ensure a continuous harvest.
- Provide Partial Shade: In hot summer weather, plant garden rocket in partial shade to prevent it from bolting too quickly.
- Keep Soil Moist: Regular watering is key to preventing stress and bolting, which can lead to bitter-tasting leaves.
- Harvest Regularly: For the best flavor, harvest younger leaves as a 'cut-and-come-again' crop. Picking individual leaves from the outside of the plant encourages continuous growth.
Potential Risks and Identification
While safe for most people, some individuals may experience an intolerance to rocket, potentially causing mild digestive issues or headaches. Correct identification is also crucial, especially when foraging.
- Distinguishing Look-Alikes: One plant sometimes confused with rocket is Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis), which is also edible but has four-petaled flowers and is in the mustard family. Another common weed, Yellowrocket (Barbarea vulgaris), is not recommended for consumption due to higher levels of potentially harmful isothiocyanates. The key identifier for true rocket is its four-petaled flowers, but always be 100% certain before consuming a foraged plant. Phlox, a native plant, has five petals.
- Heavy Metal Contamination: Rocket can absorb heavy metals from contaminated soil. If growing in an area with a history of contamination, it's safer to grow it in containers with fresh soil.
Conclusion
Yes, the rocket plant is completely edible, highly nutritious, and a versatile culinary addition. Both garden rocket and wild rocket offer distinctive peppery flavors that can enhance salads, pastas, and pizzas. With simple growing techniques, you can enjoy a continuous harvest of this zesty leafy green from your own garden. For most, the benefits of incorporating this vitamin and antioxidant-rich vegetable far outweigh the minimal risks, making it a flavorful and healthy choice. Just be sure of proper identification if foraging and avoid contaminated soil when growing. The next time you're looking for a low-calorie, flavorful boost, reach for some rocket leaves, flowers, or seeds. An NIH study provides further information on rocket's health properties and antioxidant capacity in protecting against human diseases NIH study on rocket's benefits.
