Family

Brassicaceae

Description

Often mistaken for native phlox, dame’s rocket is a short-lived perennial or biennial that naturalizes readily in gardens and along roadsides. It produces tall, airy spires of four-petaled flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white, which are fragrant—especially in the evening—and attractive to pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and moths. Though popular in traditional cottage gardens, it can be weedy in disturbed areas and is considered invasive in some northeastern and midwestern U.S. regions.

Native to Eurasia, Hesperis matronalis was introduced to North America in the 1600s as an ornamental. It prefers moist, well-drained soils in sun or part shade and self-sows readily. While beautiful, it’s best grown in controlled settings to prevent unwanted spread into natural ecosystems.

Bloom Time

May to June