The Story Behind the Names: From Roman 'Eruca' to Modern 'Arugula'
All the common names for this plant ultimately trace back to the same ancient Latin root. The Romans cultivated the plant, referring to it as Eruca. This Latin root eventually evolved through various languages, leading to the diverse terminology we see today. The history of its names reflects its widespread adoption and the movement of people and culinary traditions across continents.
For instance, the Italian dialects, particularly in southern Italy, used variations like rucola or aruculu, which became the source of the American English term 'arugula,' introduced by Italian immigrants. In contrast, the French borrowed the Italian term ruchetta and adapted it into 'roquette.' The British then adopted this French word, transforming it into 'rocket,' the name now used in Commonwealth countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
Wild vs. Cultivated Arugula
An important distinction exists between the cultivated arugula and its wild cousin. While both are members of the Brassicaceae family, they are different species. Cultivated arugula is Eruca sativa (or sometimes classified as Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa), whereas the spicier, more pungent wild rocket is Diplotaxis tenuifolia. The leaves of wild rocket are typically more jagged and can have a much more intense peppery flavor than the cultivated variety.
Other Common and Regional Names
Beyond the most common alternative, 'rocket,' the plant is also known by several other regional and less-common names:
- Rucola: This is the standard Italian word for the plant.
- Roquette: The French name for arugula.
- Garden Rocket: A common name often used to differentiate it from wild varieties.
- Colewort: An older English name for certain leafy greens in the Brassicaceae family, sometimes applied to arugula.
- Gargeer (جِرْجِير): The name used for the fresh leaves in Arab countries and for the seeds in parts of India.
Culinary Comparison: Rocket vs. Arugula
Though the names refer to the same plant, their use can sometimes imply a subtle difference in context, particularly due to the common use of 'wild rocket'. The flavor of arugula can vary, becoming more pungent with maturity or stress from heat, but its overall characteristics are consistent across its names.
| Feature | Arugula (American English) | Rocket (Commonwealth English) |
|---|---|---|
| Common Perception | Gained popularity in the 1990s in upscale cuisine. | A more traditional term, used since Elizabethan times in England. |
| Flavor Profile | Known for a peppery, slightly bitter flavor. | Known for a peppery flavor with a subtle 'bite'. |
| Culinary Use | Popular in mixed salads, on pizza, or in pesto. | Used similarly in salads, as a pizza topping, and wilted into pasta. |
| Sourcing | Typically found in grocery stores and salad mixes. | Common in supermarkets and farmers markets. |
| Wild Variety | Sometimes sold as 'wild arugula,' with a spicier flavor. | Often sold as 'wild rocket' (Diplotaxis tenuifolia). |
Health Benefits of the Arugula Plant
Regardless of its name, this leafy green is a powerhouse of nutrition. It's a low-calorie vegetable rich in essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health. It contains significant amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, along with important minerals like calcium and potassium. The presence of antioxidants in arugula can also help combat oxidative stress.
One of its most notable benefits is its high vitamin K content, which is crucial for bone health and proper blood clotting. For individuals taking anticoagulant medications, it is important to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K-rich foods like arugula and consult a healthcare provider. The peppery flavor comes from glucosinolates, compounds common to the mustard family that are believed to have potential cancer-fighting properties.
Conclusion: A Plant of Many Names
Ultimately, whether you call it arugula, rocket, rucola, or roquette, you are referring to the same nutritious and flavorful leafy green. The variation in its name is a linguistic echo of its long history and global spread from its Mediterranean origins. Understanding these different names is not only interesting for trivia, but also practical for navigating different cuisines and grocery store aisles around the world. So the next time you encounter "rocket salad" on a menu, you'll know exactly what peppery delight to expect.
For more information on growing this versatile green at home, a helpful resource can be found at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Division of Extension.
