American searocket
cakile edentula
Also known as: ["sea rocket","beach rocket"]
Overview
A coastal annual herb with pinnately divided leaves and small white or pinkish flowers, typically found in sandy or gravelly shores.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Cakile |
| Botanical Name: | Cakile edentula |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: coastal areas, sandy dunes, or rock gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; cannot tolerate waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter; mimics coastal dune conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically after flowering or when deadheading.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only spent flowers or damaged stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates coastal conditions with salt spray.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; suitable for sandy, well-drained coastal soils.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; coastal exposure is ideal.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
sandy, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; add organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F); thrives in coastal climates with mild summers.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; coastal conditions are ideal.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; can also be propagated from stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright, and humid conditions; protect from direct sun during rooting.
Medium
Well-draining sandy soil or cactus mix; can also root in water for cuttings.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining soil, rooting hormone (optional), water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or faded flowers at the base; trim damaged stems to healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain health.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged growth; use clean tools; prune to healthy tissue; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger if repotting is necessary.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers; repot if roots outgrow the pot or soil becomes compacted.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth or halts flowering in temperatures below 40°F; may experience frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; plant in sheltered coastal areas; avoid exposure to freezing winds.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in excessive heat; growth may slow in temperatures above 85°F.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply to cool roots; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCakile edentula is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCakile edentula is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a health risk to canines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCakile edentula, commonly known as American sea rocket, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cakile edentula edible?
A: The seeds are edible and can be used as a spice or ground into flour.
Q: Where does Cakile edentula grow naturally?
A: It is native to coastal regions, particularly sandy or gravelly shores.
Q: Does Cakile edentula attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and seeds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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