Proper name: Eruca sativa
Family: Brassicaceae

Arugula is a fast growing peppery leafy green prized for its bold flavor and quick harvests. It is a classic cool season crop that thrives in spring and fall and is especially well suited for cut and come again harvesting, making it ideal for home gardeners who want frequent, fresh greens with minimal effort.

AKAs (Also Known As)

Rocket – Common name in the UK and Europe
Roquette – French culinary name
Garden Rocket – Used to distinguish it from wild arugula

History

Arugula has been cultivated since ancient Roman times, where it was valued for both its culinary and medicinal uses. Romans believed arugula to be an aphrodisiac and used the leaves and seeds in oils and seasonings. Over centuries, arugula became a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and later spread globally. Today, it is a popular salad green known for its sharp, nutty flavor and rapid growth.

Plant Size

Arugula plants are compact and efficient growers.

Height: 6 to 12 inches
Spread: 6 to 12 inches

Flowering plants grow taller and develop edible blossoms with a milder flavor.

Germination Time

Seeds germinate quickly in 3 to 7 days. Arugula can be direct sown and is one of the fastest greens from seed to harvest.

Best Growing Zones

Arugula grows in USDA Zones 3 through 11 as a cool season annual. It performs best in cooler temperatures and will bolt quickly in heat.

Light Requirements

Full sun to partial shade
Requires 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily
Afternoon shade helps slow bolting in warmer climates

Growing Methods

Soil: Yes
Hydroponic: Yes, excellent for leafy production
Indoor: Yes, with bright light
Outdoor: Yes
Container: Yes, shallow containers work well

Growing Notes

Arugula prefers consistent moisture and cooler temperatures. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued growth. Succession planting every 2 to 3 weeks extends the harvest season. Leaves become more bitter as temperatures rise or once the plant begins to flower.

Similar and Related Plants

Spinach
Mustard greens
Watercress
Mizuna

Arugula offers fast harvests and bold flavor for growers who enjoy fresh greens throughout the cool seasons. With regular cutting, it continues producing tender leaves again and again.

Arugula