Diplotaxis erucoides (L.) Dc.

Annuals or biennials, not scented. Stems erect, 1-4(-8) dm, densely pubescent throughout, (trichomes retrorse, appressed). Basal leaves: blades elliptic to obovate, 2.5-8 cm × 10-40 mm, margins sinuate to pinnatifid or lyrate, (2-5 lobes each side), (surfaces pubescent throughout, trichomes antrorse). Cauline leaves (distal) sessile; blade (base cuneate to broad, truncate), margins similar to basal, (distally reduced, subtending proximal flowers). Fruiting pedicels 3-10(-22) mm. Flowers: sepals 4-5.5 mm, pubescent, trichomes ± flexuous; petals white (turning purple when dried), 7-10 × 4-5 mm; filaments 4-6.5 mm; anthers 1.5-2 mm; gynophore obsolete or to 0.5 mm. Fruits erect-patent, 2-3.5(-4) cm × 1.5-2(-2.5) mm; terminal segment beaklike, 2-5 mm, 1-or 2-seeded. Seeds 1-1.2 × 0.5-0.8 mm. 2n = 14.

It is a Mediterranean climate plant. It can grow in the desert. It is damaged by frost. It needs a well-drained soil and full sun.

The leaves are spicy and are eaten in salads. They are also cooked with dried beans. They are best harvested before the flowers appear. It can be cooked with pasta. The stems are eaten raw in salads. They can be cooked in soups.

Plants can be grown from seed.