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American searocket

Scientific Name: Cakile edentula ssp. edentula var. edentula

Family: Brassicaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Other Names:

       

American Sea Rocket (Cakile edentula)

American Sea Rocket, scientifically known as Cakile edentula, is also referred to simply as Sea Rocket or American Searocket.

Considerations for Pets

  • This is a succulent plant.

Considerations for Children

  • This is a succulent plant.
  • This plant is edible, with tangy leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cakile edentula (Bigelow) Hook.
  • Family: Brassicaceae (Mustard family)
  • Genus: Cakile
  • Species: edentula
  • Synonyms: Cakile edentula var. edentula, Cakile californica, Hooker var. edentula

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the East coast of North America.
  • Also found around the Great Lakes.
  • Grows on sandy beaches above the high tide line and along coastlines.

Ecological Role

  • A pioneer species.
  • Considered a common weed of coastal environs, such as foredunes, seashores, and offshore islands.
  • Invasive in Japan and Australia, and has naturalized in New Zealand.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Summer annual.
  • Typically grows to be 6-20 inches tall.
  • Frequently branches, resembling a tumbleweed in larger specimens.
  • Fleshy stems and leaves.

Uses

  • The fleshy leaves are edible and have a tangy flavor, suitable for salads.

Quirky Facts

  • The name "Two-horned Sea Rocket" refers to the two horns on its seed pod.

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Discover Life
  • Dave's Garden
  • Endangered Resources Program