Yellow rocket (Barbarea vulgaris)

Also known as: Winter cress, yellow rocket

Yellow rocket, a biennial herb native to Europe, derives its name "Barbarea" from Saint Barbara, the patron saint of artillerymen and miners. This association likely stems from the plant's historical use in treating wounds common in those professions. The leaves of Barbarea are edible, both raw and cooked, and the plant is naturally resistant to various insects.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Yellow rocket

Lifespan

Biennial, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 1 m

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 mm to 2 mm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Yellow rocket

Quickly Identify Yellow rocket

Tall flowering stalks up to 2 feet (60 cm) high.

Clusters of bright golden-yellow flowers with 4 petals.

Angular-cylindrical seedpods 0.75 to 1 inch (1.9 to 2.5 cm) long.

Dark green, hairless leaves with shiny upper surface, up to 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Hairless, stout stem with light green to reddish-purple color and angular shape.

Scientific Classification of Yellow rocket

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Brassicales

Family

Cruciferae

Genus

Winter cress

Species

Yellow rocket

Planting and Growing of Yellow rocket

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Yellow rocket?

Barbarea vulgaris prefers consistent moisture, but not waterlogged conditions. It's best to water it until the top inch of soil is moistened, approximately 250ml, depending on the size of the plant and pot drainage. Ensure water reaches the roots, but avoid soggy soil to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Yellow rocket? ›

What should I do if my Yellow rocket is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Yellow rocket? ›

How to save an overwatered Yellow rocket? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Yellow rocket?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours daily

Barbarea vulgaris thrives in partial to full sunlight, aiding robust growth and leaf development. Adequate light exposure supports photosynthesis and overall plant health.

What is the best lighting condition for Barbarea vulgaris? ›

What solutions can help Barbarea vulgaris achieve ideal lighting? ›

How will achieving optimal sunlight benefit Barbarea vulgaris? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Yellow rocket?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

Barbarea vulgaris thrives best in a temperature range of 60°F to 70°F. This range provides the optimal conditions for photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and overall growth. Maintaining this range will ensure healthy and robust plant development.

What Soil is Best for Yellow rocket?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Barbarea vulgaris thrives in soils laden with organic matter. A nutrient-rich base feeds its robust growth and lush foliage, making it an exceptional option for those looking to maintain hardy, vibrant plants. Adequate drainage is essential for Barbarea vulgaris, as stagnant water can lead to root rot. Ensuring proper drainage will provide a healthy environment for root expansion and overall vigor. This plant prefers soil that can retain some moisture without becoming overly saturated. Maintaining this balance helps in preventing soil from drying out too quickly, supporting sustained plant health.

How to Fertilize Yellow rocket?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Barbarea vulgaris benefits from a balanced approach to fertilization. Use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer at a rate of one tablespoon per gallon of water when using liquid fertilizers. For slow-release options, a small handful—roughly two tablespoons—scattered around the base should suffice.

How to Prune Yellow rocket?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Use sharp, clean shears or scissors for all pruning tasks to ensure smooth cuts that minimize damage to the plant. Clean tools help prevent the spread of disease, while sharp blades ensure a more precise trim, reducing stress on the plant. Begin by removing any dead or damaged leaves and stems to keep the plant healthy. Next, trim the longer stems back by one-third to encourage a compact shape and promote even growth. Always aim to cut just above a set of leaves to encourage branching. Immediately dispose of any pruned material to prevent potential disease spread or pest infestations. Compost healthy trimmings or discard diseased plant parts responsibly. Keeping your garden tidy promotes an overall healthy environment for your plants.

How to Propagate Yellow rocket plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Spring, Early Summer

To propagate Barbarea vulgaris by seed, collect seeds from mature plants in late summer or autumn when the seed pods have dried but before they have dispersed.

For cutting propagation, select a healthy parent plant in early summer. Trim a 4-6 inch cutting from a non-flowering stem just below a node, and remove the lower leaves.

Sow seeds in a seed tray with a well-draining seed starting mix. Keep the tray in a warm, bright location, and ensure the medium remains moist but not waterlogged until germination.

How to Repot Yellow rocket plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

You should consider repotting Barbarea vulgaris when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes or the plant's growth becomes stunted. These are clear signals indicating that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more space.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the previous one. Ideally, it should be made of terracotta or ceramic, offering good stability and breathability. This ensures the root system has ample space to grow, reducing the risk of becoming root-bound, which can stress the plant.

Opt for a well-draining fertile loam that maintains moisture without becoming waterlogged. This is crucial for Barbarea vulgaris as it ensures the plant receives adequate nutrients while protecting it from root rot, which can be detrimental to its health.

Toxicity of Yellow rocket

Is Yellow rocket toxic to humans?

Yellow rocket is considered potentially harmful to humans if consumed in large quantities. Some studies indicate that the leaves of yellow rocket, alongside other members of the Barbarea genus, could lead to kidney damage if ingested in excessive amounts. However, due to the lack of substantial evidence, there is limited information regarding the common symptoms or the severity of poisoning. Therefore, it is advisable to refrain from consuming this plant as a precautionary measure.

Is Yellow rocket toxic to cat?

Yellow rocket is recognized as a toxic species for felines. If cats happen to ingest any part of yellow rocket, it may result in physical distress or sickness. Signs of toxicity in a cat that has consumed yellow rocket can appear and require urgent care. Cat owners should be vigilant for any alterations in their pet's condition if exposure is thought to have occurred, and they should quickly consult a veterinarian to guarantee their pet receives the necessary medical intervention.

Is Yellow rocket toxic to dog?

Yellow rocket is recognized as toxic to dogs. Canines might inadvertently consume parts of this plant, resulting in poisoning. Every part of the plant—leaves, stems, flowers, and roots—harbors toxic compounds that can be detrimental to a dog's wellbeing. Signs of poisoning in dogs can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, weakness, or more pronounced symptoms like alterations in heart rate or tremors. It is essential for dog owners to remain vigilant and keep their pets away from yellow rocket. Should a dog ingest any section of yellow rocket, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure the best possible recovery for the affected animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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