wild arugula is an herbaceous industrial plant that adds a delicious peppery flavor to any dish . Also known as rocket or rucola , raving mad garden rocket is a versatile and nutritious green that has been enjoyed for centuries . With its distinctively barbed predilection and delicate leaves , it has become a staple in salads , pestos , and even as a topping on pizza pie . But wild roquette is not just a culinary delight ; it also has a rich history and a reach of health benefit .
In this article , we will explore the origins and characteristics of wild arugula , how to farm and care for it in your garden , as well as the various way in which you could comprise it into your meals to enhance both flavour and nutrition . So , grab your horticulture baseball mitt and let ’s dive into the wonderful human race of angry arugula !
What is a Wild Arugula?
Wild arugula , also known as Diplotaxis tenuifolia or wild rocket , is a leafy dark-green plant life that belongs to the Brassicaceae home . It is a close congener of the more commonly known cultivated Eruca vesicaria sativa , but it has a distinct flavor and appearance . Wild Eruca sativa has profoundly lobed , stretch leaves that are slightly peaky and have a more pungent taste perception compare to even arugula .
The leaves are dark green and can vary in size , with some being smaller and more supply ship while others are larger and slightly rugged . This variety of arugula is make out for its peppery , nutty , and more or less acid flavor , which adds a unique and zesty sense of taste to salads , sandwiches , and other dishes .
It can be eaten raw or lightly wangle , and its distinct flavour can enhance the overall taste of a salmagundi of culinary introduction . Wild arugula is a cool - season plant life , meaning it thrives in cooler temperature and can withstand mild frosts . It is comparatively comfortable to produce and can be sow straight in the garden or in containers . It prefers well - drain dirt and take regular watering to keep the plant life healthy and thriving .
One of the vantage of cultivate savage Eruca sativa is that it tend to be more rut tolerant than train roquette , making it a swell option for gardeners in warmer climates . It also tends to have a longer growing time of year , let for multiple harvests . As an experient gardener , I would commend integrate wild rocket into your garden if you enjoy its distinct flavour and want to lend a bit of variety to your leafy greens appeal . It can be a rewarding and flavorful addition to any herb or vegetable garden .
What does Wild Arugula taste like?
furious Eruca vesicaria sativa , also known as wild rocket or rucola , has a distinct and peppery taste that countersink it aside from its cultivated opposite number . Unlike veritable arugula , wild arugula has a slightly unassailable and more pungent flavor , verging on being spicy or acerb .
The taste can be described as a combination of mustard honey oil and peppery notes , with a clue of nuttiness . The farewell are tender but have a rich smack that adds a delightful kick to salad , sandwich , and other cup of tea .
uncivilized arugula ’s taste is often described as bold and zesty , making it a popular choice among those who enjoy a more intense and flavorous light-green . Its distinguishable preference adds profoundness and complexness to various culinary creations , making it a sought - after ingredient in many culinary art .
Overall , the taste perception of savage arugula is vibrant , peppery , and slightly acrid , providing a unparalleled and exciting feeling profile to any dish it is added to .
How to start from seed
Starting wild arugula ( Diplotaxis tenuifolia ) from seeds is a relatively straight process . Here ’s a step - by - step guide to help you get started :
think of , wild arugula is live for its more or less juicy relish and rapid growth , seduce it an splendid gain to salads , sandwiches , or garnish . Enjoy the procedure of growing your own flavorful common !
Planting and growing Wild Arugula
Planting and growing uncivilised arugula ( also known as risky rocket or Diplotaxis tenuifolia ) is comparatively easy . Here are the tone to successfully originate wild arugula :
By following these steps , you should have a successful raging arugula harvest home in your garden . Enjoy the fresh and peppery flavors of this delicious leafy vegetable !
When to harvest
The best time to harvest is when the folio are young and sensitive , typically around 30 to 40 days after constitute . unfounded arugula tends to run off and become acerb apace , so it ’s significant to reap it before it strive that microscope stage . Look for leaves that are glum green and about 2 to 3 inches long . Avoid harvesting when the plant is wet , as it can lead to spoilage .
