Purple Rocket (Iodanthus Pinnatifidus)

Purple Rocket

Features and Characteristics

Iodanthus pinnatifidus, commonly called purple rocket, is a perennial of the mustard family that is native from Connecticut to Minnesota south to Alabama and Texas. It is typically found growing in low, moist woodlands, on stream flood plains plus adjacent slopes and in moist meadows. In Missouri, it is found throughout the State except for much of the Ozark region, southeastern lowlands region and northeastern corner (Steyermark). Plants typically grow 1-2’ (less frequently 3’) tall on single stems that are unbranched below the flower clusters. Lower leaves are often pinnately lobed near the base, featuring 1-4 pairs of toothed lobes and a large ovate end segment. Upper leaves are simple, elliptic to oblong-ovate with clasping bases. Mildly fragrant flowers (1/3” wide) have four light violet petals and bloom in branched terminal and axillary clusters in May-June. Flowers fade to white as they age. Flowers give way to elongated seed pods.

Genus name comes from the Greek words for violet (iodes) and flower (anthus).

Specific epithet is in reference to the often pinnately lobed lower leaves.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in part shade to full shade. Best in part shade locations. Plants prefer organically rich soils. Plants will tolerate short periods of flooding. Plants may be grown from seed and may spread by self-seeding.

Purple Rocket (Iodanthus Pinnatifidus) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Sun light	Part Shade To Full Shade
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Moist, shady areas including stream banks.

Purple Rocket (Iodanthus Pinnatifidus) Details

Common name	Purple Rocket
Botanical name	Iodanthus Pinnatifidus
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Brassicaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 8
Water	Medium To Wet
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Light Violet Fading To White
Flowering period	May - June
Height	1 - 3 Ft.
Width	1 - 2 Ft.