London rocket (Sisymbrium irio)
Care, watering, light and tips for London rocket on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Brassicaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About London rocket
Sisymbrium irio, commonly known as Glanz-Rauke, is an annual herb belonging to the Brassicaceae family, recognized for its small yellow flowers and lobed leaves. It is a pioneer plant that often colonizes disturbed soils, bringing a wild and natural touch to low-maintenance gardens or rewilding areas. Its upright habit and bright flowers make it attractive along pathways or as part of urban meadows.
Native range
Temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, even poor or sandy ones, showing great adaptability. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it tolerates drought well once established. Avoid waterlogging, which can rot its roots; it is a plant that thrives with minimal attention. A common mistake is treating it as a demanding garden plant, when its nature is that of a resilient and self-sufficient species.
How to save a dying London rocket
- Warning signs
- Yellowing leaves wilting quickly, soft or blackened stems from the base, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Transplant to well-drained soil, reduce watering, ensure good ventilation. Remove affected parts.
- What kills it
- Waterlogging is fatal for Sisymbrium; it quickly rots its roots. Over-fertilization too.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly upon detecting the first signs of rot or water stress.