SoCal Home Gardening

Comparison of With Other Varieties

Arugula, also known as rocket, is a popular leafy green vegetable with a distinct peppery taste. While there are various arugula varieties available, one specific variety worth mentioning is the Shooting Star arugula. This variety stands out due to its unique characteristics and qualities.

Compared to other arugula varieties, Shooting Star has several notable differences. Firstly, it has a more refined and delicate appearance. The leaves of Shooting Star arugula are deeply lobed and highly serrated, creating an attractive frilly appearance. This visual appeal can make it an excellent choice for garnishing dishes or adding aesthetic value to salads.

In terms of taste, Shooting Star arugula maintains the signature peppery flavor that arugula is known for. However, its taste tends to be slightly milder compared to other varieties. This characteristic makes it a suitable choice for individuals who enjoy the flavor of arugula but prefer a less intense spiciness.

One significant advantage of the Shooting Star variety is its ability to withstand bolting. Bolting refers to when a plant prematurely produces flowers instead of focusing on leaf growth. This can negatively impact the taste and texture of the leaves. However, Shooting Star arugula has been specifically bred to be slow to bolt, ensuring that the leaves remain tasty and tender for a more extended period. This makes it a reliable choice for gardeners who want a more extended harvest window.

The history of the Shooting Star arugula variety can be traced back to its development by plant breeders. These individuals selectively bred arugula plants to enhance specific traits such as the frilly appearance, milder taste, and slower bolting. This careful breeding process aimed to create a unique variety that would appeal to both commercial growers and home gardeners alike.

To purchase the Shooting Star arugula variety, individuals can look for seeds or seedlings at local nurseries or garden centers. Additionally, many online seed retailers offer this variety, making it easily accessible to gardeners from various locations.

In summary, the Shooting Star arugula variety offers distinct qualities that set it apart from other arugula varieties. Its frilly appearance, milder taste, and slower bolting make it an attractive option for gardeners looking to grow arugula with added visual appeal and a longer harvest period. With its availability from various sources, both novice and experienced gardeners can enjoy the benefits of the Shooting Star arugula variety.