Yellow Rocket (Barbarea vulgaris)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Barbarea vulgaris is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, bees, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - raw or cooked like spinach. A hot cress-like flavour. — Young leaves - raw or cooked like spinach.; A hot cress-like flavour.; Young leaves are chopped up finely and added to salads, older leaves can be used as a potherb but they are rather strong and are best cooked in one or two changes of water.; The leaves are available all year round, even in the winter, especially if the weather is mild.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist places, roadsides, stream banks and hedges. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)