Cakile maritima
sea rocket
A succulent annual, with branched stems about 15–45cm long bearing thick fleshy pale grey-green leaves. Small, 4-petalled flowers to 2.5cm across, are white or pale lilac-purple, from early to late summer, followed by short, stubby green seed capsules maturing to brown with two yellow or brown, smooth seeds
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Grey Silver Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple White | Grey Silver Green | ||
| Autumn | Grey Silver Green | Green Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Arabia, N Am., Med., Aus.
How to grow
Cultivation
Sea rocket grows on coastal foreshores in sand dunes and in shingle or gravel where its long taproot can anchor the plant and stabilise the soil. It is tolerant of salt spray and short bouts of seawater inundation
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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