Arugula, often called rocket or roquette, is a popular leafy green appreciated for its distinct peppery and slightly bitter flavor. Native to the Mediterranean region, arugula has moved from a niche ingredient to a common salad component. The types of arugula are defined by their botanical classifications and the numerous cultivated varieties developed for specific characteristics, which offer a range of flavors and textures.
The Two Primary Botanical Categories of Arugula
The types of arugula primarily fall into two distinct botanical categories, which differ in their life cycle and flavor intensity. The most common type is Annual Arugula, scientifically known as Eruca sativa, cultivated as a fast-growing spring or fall crop. This garden rocket variety typically produces broad, tender leaves and offers a milder flavor profile compared to its wild counterpart. It is prone to bolting, or prematurely producing a flower stalk, when exposed to high temperatures, which signals the end of its harvest window.
The second major category is Perennial Arugula, or Wild Rocket, which is classified as Diplotaxis tenuifolia. Unlike the annual species, this type grows more slowly and is hardier, often returning for multiple seasons. Wild rocket is easily identified by its smaller, more deeply lobed leaves that resemble fine oak leaves. Its growth habit is less prone to bolting in warm weather, allowing for a longer harvest, though its flavor intensifies significantly as the plant matures.
Popular Cultivars and Their Growing Characteristics
Specific cultivars have been bred within both botanical categories for commercial and home garden performance, offering choices based on speed, leaf shape, and heat tolerance. Annual Arugula (Eruca sativa) cultivars are selected for rapid growth and a less intense flavor. The ‘Astro’ cultivar is valued for its early maturity, often ready for baby leaf harvest in about 21 days, and its relatively slow-to-bolt nature, producing leaves that are less lobed than other varieties.
Another popular Eruca selection is ‘Runway’, distinguished by its deep-lobed, oak-leaf-shaped foliage and fast growth rate. In the Wild Arugula (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) group, the focus shifts to a more robust plant with a stronger flavor. The ‘Voyager’ cultivar is a commercially replicated wild type, bred to be uniform and vigorous, featuring thick, dark-green leaves and improved bolt resistance.
‘Wildfire’ is a sought-after wild rocket variety, praised for its upright growth habit, which makes harvesting easier. ‘Sylvetta’ is known for its slow-growing habit and exceptional cold tolerance, making it a reliable choice for extended season harvests.
Flavor and Texture Differences Between Types
The differences between arugula types are evident in their flavor and texture. Annual Arugula (Eruca sativa) is characterized by a tender, buttery texture and a milder, slightly nutty, and peppery taste. Its broad, smooth-edged leaves are less fibrous and wilt easily, making it ideal for fresh salads where a delicate green is desired.
In contrast, Wild Arugula (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) provides a more intense culinary experience due to its higher concentration of isothiocyanates, the compounds responsible for the peppery heat. This type offers a sharp, pungent, and often nutty flavor with a tougher, more finely cut leaf texture. This robust profile means wild rocket is frequently used as an accent or cooked briefly, such as being added to pizza or pasta just before serving.