The real salad rocket (Eruca sativa) is also known in Germany mainly by its Italian name rocket. It comes from the cruciferous family (Brassicaceae), has coarsely pinnate leaves and is grown as an annual. The rocket originally comes from the Mediterranean region and was already a popular medicinal and aromatic plant with the Romans. It grows ten to 50 centimeters high and has hairy leaves that resemble those of radishes. Rocket is very popular as a fresh salad ingredient or on pizza.

 Above all, the young leaves of the plant are used for this, as the older leaves are more suitable for seasoning with their sharpness. Mustard oil glycosides are responsible for their characteristic nutty-spicy taste. The rocket is rich in folic acid, vitamin B and the minerals potassium and calcium. As a fast-growing and easy-care plant, it is also suitable for growing in pots on the balcony or in the greenhouse.