Diplotaxis tenuifolia

Diplotaxis tenuifolia (wild rocket) seed for intensely peppery, finely cut leaves. Hardy perennial rocket that regrows vigorously and crops far longer than annual salad rocket.
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Diplotaxis tenuifolia — wild rocket

Diplotaxis tenuifolia is the botanical name for perennial wild rocket, a hardy leaf in the cabbage family (Brassicaceae) with a stronger, more lingering heat than salad rocket. It supplies much of our arugula range and is the punchier, longer-lived counterpart to annual salad rocket.

History & origin

Wild rocket is native to the Mediterranean and has long grown across southern Europe on dry, stony ground, roadsides and old walls, where it was gathered as a wild salad and pot-herb. As demand for peppery leaves grew, this tougher perennial species was brought into cultivation alongside true rocket and is now widely grown for the bagged-salad trade thanks to its intense flavour and excellent regrowth. The genus name Diplotaxis refers to the seeds being arranged in two rows in the pod, while tenuifolia means slender-leaved.

Botanical characteristics

Unlike annual rocket, Diplotaxis tenuifolia is a short-lived perennial forming a tough rosette of deeply cut, narrow, almost feathery leaves on a wiry plant. Its yellow flowers contrast with the white blooms of true rocket. The leaves are smaller, darker and considerably hotter, with a flavour that builds as the plant matures, and the rootstock allows it to regrow vigorously after cutting and to overwinter where it isn't too cold. It belongs naturally among our fresh leafy greens.

Growing Diplotaxis tenuifolia from seed

Wild rocket is sown much like salad rocket but rewards a little patience — it is slower to establish, then crops for far longer. Sow direct from spring to late summer, thin lightly, and cut as cut-and-come-again leaves; established plants can give pickings well into autumn and beyond under cover. It tolerates poorer, drier soils than most leaves. Our vegetable growing guide covers the basics, and the vegetable sowing calendar shows the windows.

Ready for the hottest, longest-cropping rocket of all? Browse the varieties below.

Related categories: Arugula · Salad Rocket · Fresh Leafy Greens · Fast-Growing Vegetables · All Vegetables

At SeedsChoice, every order ships from Meppel, NL with fast, tracked EU delivery.

How is wild rocket different from salad rocket?
Wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) is a hardy perennial with narrow, deeply cut leaves and a much stronger, longer-lasting heat. Salad rocket (Eruca sativa) is a faster annual with broader, milder leaves. Is wild rocket perennial?
Yes — it is a short-lived perennial. Established plants regrow strongly after cutting and can overwinter in milder areas, giving harvests over a long period. Why is my wild rocket slower to grow?
It naturally takes longer to establish than annual rocket, but once settled it crops for much longer, so the early patience pays off. Does wild rocket get hotter as it grows?
Yes, the flavour intensifies with maturity and in hot, dry conditions. For milder leaves pick them young and keep plants watered.