Arugula
Diplotaxis tenuifolia
Diplotaxis tenuifolia, commonly known as rocket or perennial wall-rocket, is a species of plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is widely recognized for its role in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in salads, which has popularized its alternate name, wild arugula.
Below is a detailed description of Diplotaxis tenuifolia:
- Appearance: It is a herbaceous perennial plant with erect stems that can grow up to 80 cm tall. The leaves are deeply lobed and possess a characteristically spicy and peppery flavor.
- Flowers: The plant produces bright yellow flowers with four petals, a typical trait of the Brassicaceae family. These flowers bloom throughout the warm months, attracting pollinators like bees.
- Habitat: Diplotaxis tenuifolia thrives in rocky and sandy soils, commonly found in disturbed areas, roadsides, and fields of the Comunidad Valenciana. It adapts well to different environmental conditions, making it a resilient species.
- Uses: Aside from its culinary uses, mainly as an ingredient in salads and pesto, the plant is also valued for its health benefits, being rich in vitamin C, iron, and other nutrients.
In the Comunidad Valenciana, Diplotaxis tenuifolia is an appreciated component of the local flora. Its adaptability and culinary significance make it a noteworthy plant in the region.