Sea Rocket (Cakile edentula)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Cakile edentula is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

milder tasting leaves and used as a potherb. — Leaves and young stems - raw or cooked.; The younger leaves are used in salads whilst older leaves are mixed with milder tasting leaves and used as a potherb.; A horseradish flavour.; Root - dried and ground into a powder, then mixed with cereal flours and used to make bread.

Habitat & North American Range

Sandy or gravelly beaches from S. Labrador to S. Carolina and also around the Great Lakes. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)