Species European Searocket
white flowers with yellow-green leaves and stems

European Searocket

Cakile maritima

European Searocket (Cakile maritima) is a species of flowering plant native to the coastal areas of Europe and North Africa. Its succulent, fleshy green leaves grow in a rosette formation, while its 20 cm stems are topped with cabbage-like clusters of white flowers. The plant thrives in sandy soil and is an annual, self-seeding variety. Its long-tapering seedpods are edible and can be used in salads. The plant is tolerant of salt spray and coastal climates, making it a perfect choice for coastal gardens.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

European Searocket should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant should be watered until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. During periods of drought, it can be watered more frequently, but be sure to keep the soil just lightly moist at all times – never soggy. The soil should never be completely dry for more than a day or 2. This plant needs more water in hotter temperatures, so avoid underwatering, and water more often during hot summer months. Overwatering can cause root rot and can kill the plant, so make sure there is good drainage in the pot. European Searocket is tolerant of salty conditions, so it can be watered with water from a saltwater aquarium if needed.

sunlight

European Searocket requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering. In most of its native range, this plant should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. In high-altitude regions, or during summer months, it may even require up to 8 hours of sunlight a day in order to thrive. Allowing the plants to remain in partial shade is usually not suggested for this species.

pruning

European sea rocket should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This is usually done when the plant is still dormant. A light pruning of dead branches or “suckers”, should be done to encourage optimal plant growth. Pruning can also help to keep the plant in a more aesthetically pleasing shape. Pruning should not be done aggressively, as it can damage the plant and stunt its growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Cakile maritima typically begins in June and continues through August.