Red Dragon Arugula salad in a bowl surrounded by leaves on a white background.
Red Dragon Arugula with a vintage dragon figurine and blooms on white.
A gardener holding freshly picked Red Dragon Arugula with blooms.
Red Dragon Arugula with yellow blooms on a white background.
Hands holding a single Red Dragon Arugula leaf.
Red Dragon Arugula leaves growing in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.
Red Dragon Arugula salad in a bowl surrounded by leaves on a white background.
Red Dragon Arugula with a vintage dragon figurine and blooms on white.
A gardener holding freshly picked Red Dragon Arugula with blooms.
Red Dragon Arugula with yellow blooms on a white background.
Hands holding a single Red Dragon Arugula leaf.
Red Dragon Arugula leaves growing in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.

Arugula Seeds,
Red Dragon

32 ReviewsSKU: #OG134Min. seed count: 100
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Description

(Diplotaxis tenuifolia). This arugula with a twist will enliven your culinary creations! Leaves are dramatically lobed in an oak leaf shape with a splash of crimson color.

Growing Tips: Red Dragon arugula thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0–7.0. Incorporate compost or organic matter into the soil before planting to ensure it is nutrient-rich. This variety prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hotter climates where some shade can help prevent premature bolting. Water regularly, as arugula has shallow roots that require consistent moisture.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Diplotaxis tenuifolia
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
4–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
5–7
Days to Maturity
45–50
Planting Depth
⅛ in.
Plant Spacing
Thin to 6 in.
Ideal Temperature
40–70°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Red Dragon arugula is best planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. It is a cool-season crop that struggles in the heat, often bolting when temperatures rise above 70°F. In most regions, you can begin sowing seeds as soon as the soil is workable in the spring. For a continuous harvest, consider succession planting every two to three weeks until the weather becomes too warm. In areas with mild winters, you can extend the growing season by planting in late summer or early fall. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

To plant Red Dragon arugula, sow the seeds directly into the garden about ⅛ inch deep, spacing them approximately 1 inch apart. Once the seedlings reach about 2 to 3 inches in height, thin them to about 6 inches apart to allow adequate space for growth. If planting in rows, space the rows about 10 to 12 inches apart. This variety is also well-suited for container gardening due to its shallow root system. Ensure the containers have good drainage and keep the soil consistently moist.

How to Grow

Red Dragon arugula requires minimal maintenance. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and keep the root zone cool. Fertilization is generally unnecessary if the soil is rich in organic matter. However, if the plants appear to lack vigor, a light application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be beneficial. Watch out for common pests like aphids and flea beetles, which can be managed with organic insecticides or by using physical barriers like row covers.

How to Save Seeds

To save seeds from Red Dragon arugula, allow some plants to bolt and produce flowers. These flowers will develop into seed pods. Once the pods have dried on the plant, they can be harvested and further dried in a paper bag. After drying, shake the pods to release the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them next season.

FAQ

How long does Red Dragon arugula take to grow?

This variety typically takes about 45 to 50 days to reach maturity, depending on growing conditions.

Can Red Dragon arugula be grown indoors?

Yes, it can be grown indoors with sufficient light, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights.

Can Red Dragon arugula be harvested multiple times?

Yes, Red Dragon arugula can be harvested multiple times. You can start harvesting the outer leaves when they reach about 4 to 6 inches in length, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. This "cut-and-come-again" method encourages the plant to produce more leaves, allowing for multiple harvests throughout its growing season​.

Browse our full range of arugula seeds.

Customer reviews

3 / 5 2 Reviews
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