How to Grow Dame's Rocket Plants
Perennial- Biennial, Hesperis Matronalis
Dame's Rocket is certainly easy to grow. While popular in the flower garden,
it is also grown as a wildflower. Others still, consider it an invasive weed.
Even the USDA refers to it as "weedy and invasive". Native to Eurasia and
Japan, it is a member of the mustard family, that was introduced into
the US in the 1600's. Its prolific seed production, is the cause for it's
quick spread wherever it is grown. Dame's Rocket seeds are often included
in wildflower mixtures.
Dame's Rocket flowers are fregrant, in colors of white, pink and purple.
The four-petaled flowers of this biennial, bloom profusely in large, loose
clusters, from May to August of their second year.
Their native habitat is woodlands and along the edges of woodlands, which
offers them the light shade that they prefer. You can also find them along
roadsides and even in open spaces.
Other Names: This flower is also called Dame's Violet, Sweet Rocket,
Damask Violet
Propagation:
Dame's Rocket is grown from seed. Directly sow seeds in the spring,
or in the fall. Keep the soil moist.
Plants will grow 1 - 4 feet tall. Make sure to space them to provide ample
room, depending upon variety.
How to Grow Dame's Rocket Plants:
Dame's Rocket plants are very easy to grow. They will grow in almost any
soil, as long as it its kept moist. The plants do not like hot, humid weather,
and will grow best in more northerly climates.
Keep soil most at all times. Fertilize every four to six weeks, for best
performance.
Insect and Disease:
Dame's Rocket have few insect or disease problems. If insect or disease
problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and
fungicide.
It's an Edible Plant:
The young leaves, tender portions of stems, and pods are edible. They are
used as pot herbs.
The flowers are used in fruit dishes and salads.
More Information:
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