Turkish Rocket

Turkish Rocket (Bunias orientalis) is a hardy perennial vegetable in the mustard family, valued for its edible young shoots, leaves, and flower buds. In early spring, the tender shoots can be harvested and eaten much like broccoli raab, while the flower buds resemble small broccoli heads with a peppery, mustard-like flavour. The leaves are also edible, though stronger in taste, and can be used sparingly in salads or cooked as a potherb.

This deep-rooted perennial is drought tolerant, thrives in full sun, and can adapt to a range of soils. Once established, it is resilient, long-lived, and low-maintenance. Its tall yellow flower clusters attract pollinators, adding ecological value to food gardens and food forests.

Turkish Rocket is best grown in a dedicated patch, as it spreads readily by seed and strong roots. With its reliable spring harvests, resilience, and ecological benefits, it makes a useful and unusual addition to diverse perennial plantings.

Common names: Turkish Rocket, Hill Mustard, Turkish Wartycabbage, Warty Cabbage

Edible: Young shoots, flower buds and leaves
Harvest timing: Spring

Scientific name: Bunias orientalis
Light requirements: Full sun to part shade, but best with 6+ hours of sunlight 
Full-grown size: 2-4' tall when flowering
Hardiness: Zone 3
Pollination: Self-fertile and readily self-sows
Wildlife: Yellow flowers attract a wide range of pollinators including bees and butterflies.
Origin: Native to southeastern Europe and western Asia; naturalized in many parts of Europe and North America.
Noteworthy: A very cold hardy, drought-tolerant, and long-lived perennial.