Turkish Rocket, Turkish wartycabbage

Bunias orientalis

Physical Characteristics

Bunias orientalis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

N. America. Europe - Caucasus, S. Russia. Naturalized in Britain[17].

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Stem Edible Uses: Leaves and young stems - raw or cooked[17, 61, 105, 177, 183]. The young leaves have a mild cabbage flavour that goes very well in a mixed salad, though some people find them indigestible[K]. The leaves are a bit hairy so we find them less than wonderful when eaten raw on their own[K]. The cooked leaves make an excellent vegetable[K]. The leaves are available early in the year, usually towards the end of winter, and the plant will continue to produce leaves until late autumn, with a bit of a gap when the plant is in flower[27, K]. Flower buds and flowering stems - raw or cooked[264]. A pleasant mild flavour with a delicate sweetness and cabbage-like flavour, they make an excellent broccoli substitute though they are rather smaller[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known