Corn Rocket
Bunias erucagofam. Scrophulariaceae
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Pl. E0CA — Bunias erucago
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IOverview
Overview
Corn Rocket (Bunias erucago) is a hardy annual or biennial plant native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe, including Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8. It can grow up to 0.6 meters tall and is distinguished by its distinctive, large, lance-shaped leaves and clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. Corn Rocket's adaptability makes it suitable for gardens where it can add both ornamental value and culinary interest.
Quick answers
What is Corn Rocket?
Corn Rocket (Bunias erucago) is a hardy annual or biennial plant native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe, including Albania, Algeria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH between 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Corn Rocket thrives in light to medium and heavy soils, preferring a pH of 7.5–8. It requires moist conditions but is not overly fussy about its watering needs. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and grows up to 0.6 meters tall. Hardy from zones 6-9, it can be propagated by seed. The edible parts include leaves and roots, making it a versatile addition to the garden. Given its native range across Europe and North Africa, Corn Rocket is adaptable but ensure it has adequate moisture for best growth.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Life cycle
Annual, Biennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
Seasonal calendar
Northern hemisphere · UTC month is September
winterspringsummerautumnwinter
BloomJFMAMJJASOND
For first-time growers
How to grow Corn Rocket for the first time
7steps
Corn Rocket is a straightforward annual plant for beginners to grow from seed.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, potting soil, containers or garden space, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors a month before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH of 7.5–8. Ensure containers are at least 12 inches deep for good root growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots, then transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Space plants about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to help seedlings establish. Thin out weaker seedlings if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health. Harvest leaves as needed for cooking.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Corn Rocket is edible and its leaves and roots can be consumed. The leaves are typically eaten fresh or cooked, while the roots can be used in various preparations including drying for later use. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
18 native · 7 introduced
Distribution
18 native · 7 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 18 native· 7 introduced
Europe12 regions
native (8)AlbaniaBulgariaFranceGreeceItalyPortugalSpainSwitzerland
introduced (4)AustriaBelgiumGermanyRomania
Asia1 region
native (1)Turkey
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaTunisia
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kriti, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
introduced:Pennsylvania, Virginia, Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Scrophulariaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Scrophulariaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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