Hesperis matronalis 'Violet'
(Sweet Rocket)
325 seeds $3.25
photo by Richard Laflamme
Hesperis matronalis Violet is a popular cottage garden plant that blooms in early summer with long-stemmed flowers in a lovely shade of light violet. The fragrant flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
The leaves, flowers and seeds are edible. See this article for how to eat it.
Hesperis matronalis self-sows readily, but I don't consider it weedy in the garden. The narrow plants fit easily between other plants, making it a great filler. Deadhead the flowers if you don't want more seedlings.
Also known as Violet Sweet Rocket and Dame's Rocket. Hardy perennial in zones 3-9.
height 4' spacing 12"
Sowing Hesperis matronalis Seeds
Sow hesperis seeds outdoors after the last frost date. Or start indoors 6-8 weeks early. Barely cover the seeds with soil. Full sun to part shade.