Do Dame's Rockets Need Full Sun?

Identification

• Native to Europe and Central Asia, dame’s rocket has naturalized in much of the United States and is winter hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 8. It is considered an invasive species in some parts of the U.S., notably the Midwest, where it has been known to crowd out natives.The Missouri Botanical Garden warns that this flower should not be planted in the Midwest. Usually considered a short-lived perennial or biennial, it blooms from May to August in shades of white, pink and purple. It is known for the sweet smell that it gives off in the evening.

Light Requirements

• Dame’s rocket will grow in sun or partial shade. In areas where summer heat is considerable, the plant will do best where it receives some afternoon shade. It still needs some sun, however, so finding the right location takes some thought. Because it often loses its leaves after it is finished blooming and benefits from companion plants to disguise this fact, the other plants in the garden can shade it out before the plant's flowers and foliage disappear.

Culture

• Dame’s rocket is low-maintenance, preferring well-drained soil and a medium amount of water. It tolerates most types of soil. Removing spent flower heads can encourage the plant to bloom again. Although it frequently self-sows in the garden, you may also plant it from seed. Sow seeds 1/16 inch deep when soil temperature is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Dame's rocket tends to become woody after several years, so you will probably obtain best results by replanting it every so often.

Garden Uses

• This cheerful flower works well in beds as well as cottage gardens and wildflower meadows. It can also be used well in informal settings such as planted along fences, driveways, roadsides and ditches. Its bright flowers makes it visible from long distances when planted in large groups. Be careful that it does not crowd out native plants or escape into wild areas.