Contents
Description
Sisymbrium Irio, commonly known as London Rocket, is an annual plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It originated in Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia but has now spread all over the world. It grows up to 50cm tall and its flowers bloom between May and September. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Sisymbrium |
Appearance
Sisymbrium Irio has an erect, branching stem with narrow leaves that are deeply lobed. The leaves are dark green, smooth, and have a waxy texture. The flowers are small, yellow, and have four petals. The plant produces long, narrow seed pods that are about 3cm long and 1mm thick. The seed pods are green when young and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Sisymbrium Irio is easy to grow and requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but grows best in neutral to alkaline soil. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Sisymbrium Irio is hardy and can tolerate frost and drought. It grows in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sisymbrium Irio is relatively pest and disease-free but can be affected by aphids, caterpillars, and flea beetles. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Sisymbrium Irio grows in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight but can tolerate some shade. The plant is commonly found in Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia but has now spread to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sisymbrium Irio poisonous?
A: No, Sisymbrium Irio is not poisonous and is safe for human consumption.
Q: Can Sisymbrium Irio be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Sisymbrium Irio has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, asthma, and fever.
Q: How often should I water Sisymbrium Irio?
A: Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sisymbrium Irio?
A: Sisymbrium Irio grows in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Related Plants
- Sisymbrium altissimum
- Sisymbrium orientale
- Sisymbrium loeselii
- Sisymbrium erysimoides
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SIIR
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/sisiri/all.html
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c389
