Perennial Wall-rocket
rapistrum rugosum
Also known as: ["Annual Wall-rocket","Wild Mustard"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant in the Brassicaceae family, known for its small yellow flowers and pungent leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Rapistrum |
| Botanical Name: | Rapistrum rugosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove old growth without drastically reducing size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Adjust for intense summer sun by providing some afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings typically root in 3–6 weeks; seed germination may take 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity to prevent wilting; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make angled cuts just above a leaf node or bud. Remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Repot if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid leaving water in saucers. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use a soil aerator if compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold conditions; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback, especially if prolonged or severe.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering or seed production.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Rapistrum rugosum may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Rapistrum rugosum by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicRapistrum rugosum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rapistrum rugosum edible?
A: While some parts of the plant may be edible, it is generally not recommended for consumption due to potential toxicity and lack of culinary use.
Q: How does Rapistrum rugosum spread?
A: It spreads primarily through seeds, which can remain viable in the soil for many years.
Q: Can Rapistrum rugosum be controlled as a weed?
A: Yes, it can be controlled through mechanical removal or herbicides, though its persistence makes eradication challenging.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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