Rocket Mustard Sisymbrium irio

London rocket is an annual weed is in the Brassicaceae (mustard) family.  It grows up to three feet in height with tall, open stems.  Plants have both male and female organs and are pollinated by insects.  

Its early maturity each spring give it an advantage over desired wildflowers and native plants.  In wild lands settings, they can replace native plants.  It can reach heights of up to 3 feet tall, however, typically mature to around 20".

The leaves can be eaten as a green, however, they are typically eaten when other foods are not available, its spicy-hot flavor being a deterrent.  The flowers can be eaten raw, while the seeds are ground into a powder and mixed with other ingredients to make nutrient rich foods that include cereal, baked goods and tortillas.  

It can quickly recover after being subjected to fire.  Its common name, London Rockets, allegedly refers to its rapid regrowth after the Great Fire of London in the 1600s.

Small yellow flowers form in clusters at the end of the stems.  Its basal leaves may be lobed. 

In its native habitat, it can be found in desert locations, open fields, roadsides, walls, and other disturbed areas flourishing in the springtime.  The summer heat will cause the plant to die.  In the US, it is typically found in the southwestern state, and occasionally in numerous other locations.  

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  This weedy plant can harbor insects and diseases that can have a negative effect on other crops in the mustard family.   Attempts to eradicate this weed can be very time-consuming.  Cutting down or burning before its seeds become viable will exhaust the seed bank, thereby over time, eliminating the plant.  It is considered invasive in some areas of the country.