Growing arugula indoors is an easy way to enjoy fresh, peppery greens throughout the year. With the right lighting, temperature, and care, many arugula varieties thrive in containers and small spaces. From mild, tender leaves to bold, spicy flavors, each variety offers something unique. Here are 12 of the best types of arugula for indoor growing, including their characteristics and essential care requirements.
1. Astro Arugula
Astro Arugula is a fast-growing, flavorful variety that is excellent for indoor gardening. It produces tender, bright green leaves with a mildly peppery taste, making it perfect for salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Its quick growth and compact size make it especially suitable for containers, windowsills, and indoor growing systems.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Astro Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright green
- Leaf Shape: Broad, slightly lobed leaves
- Flavor: Mildly peppery and slightly nutty
- Harvest Time: Approximately 21–40 days, depending on leaf size
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Astro Arugula grows best in temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Place containers near a bright window or provide 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Use well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil and containers at least 6 inches deep. Proper spacing and good air circulation encourage healthy leaf development.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil consistently moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. Water whenever the top layer begins to dry. Thin crowded seedlings to provide adequate growing space.
Harvest young outer leaves when they reach approximately 3–4 inches long, leaving the center intact for continued growth. Regular harvesting encourages fresh, tender leaves throughout the growing season.
2. Apollo Arugula
Apollo Arugula is a productive, fast-growing variety known for its tender green leaves and pleasantly peppery flavor. It is an excellent choice for indoor gardeners who want a steady supply of fresh salad greens. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for windowsill containers, small pots, and indoor hydroponic systems.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Apollo Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright to medium green
- Leaf Shape: Elongated, lobed leaves
- Flavor: Mildly spicy and peppery
- Harvest Time: Approximately 25–40 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Apollo Arugula grows well in cool indoor temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Provide approximately 12–14 hours of bright artificial light daily or position containers near a sunny window. Use loose, nutrient-rich potting soil with excellent drainage. Containers measuring at least 6 inches deep provide sufficient room for healthy root growth.
Watering and Maintenance
Water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, but avoid excessive watering that may cause root problems. Thin young seedlings to improve airflow and prevent overcrowding. Harvest outer leaves when they reach 3–5 inches long, leaving the central growing point undamaged. Frequent harvesting encourages continued leaf production.
3. Sylvetta Arugula
Sylvetta Arugula is a popular wild arugula type valued for its deeply divided leaves and intense peppery flavor. Unlike common garden arugula, Sylvetta generally grows more slowly but can produce repeated harvests. Its compact, leafy growth makes it an attractive option for indoor containers and small herb gardens.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Diplotaxis tenuifolia
- Common Name: Sylvetta Arugula
- Leaf Color: Deep green
- Leaf Shape: Narrow, deeply lobed leaves
- Flavor: Strong, spicy, and peppery
- Harvest Time: Approximately 40–60 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Sylvetta Arugula prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Place containers where plants receive bright light for at least 6 hours daily, or supplement with LED grow lights. Use well-draining soil containing organic matter. A container approximately 6–8 inches deep supports healthy root development and continuous leaf production.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the growing medium moderately moist, allowing the surface to dry slightly between watering sessions. Avoid leaving containers in standing water. Remove yellowing leaves and provide good air circulation to maintain plant health. Harvest mature outer leaves while preserving the central growing point. Regular harvesting helps extend productivity and supplies flavorful greens for salads and cooking.
4. Esmee Arugula
Esmee Arugula is an attractive, fast-growing variety known for its deeply lobed green leaves and pleasantly peppery flavor. Its tender foliage has a distinctive appearance, making it a popular choice for fresh salads and garnishes. Esmee grows well in containers and can provide a reliable supply of fresh greens when given proper indoor growing conditions.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Esmee Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright green
- Leaf Shape: Deeply lobed with attractive, irregular edges
- Flavor: Mildly spicy, nutty, and peppery
- Harvest Time: Approximately 30–45 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Esmee Arugula grows best in temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Position containers near a bright window or provide 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Choose well-draining, nutrient-rich potting soil and containers at least 6 inches deep. Maintaining adequate spacing between plants improves airflow and encourages healthy leaf development.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Check moisture regularly and water when the upper layer begins to dry. Thin crowded seedlings to reduce competition for nutrients and light.
Begin harvesting when the leaves reach approximately 3–5 inches long. Cut mature outer leaves carefully while leaving the central growing point intact. Regular harvesting encourages continued leaf production and helps maintain tender, flavorful greens.
5. Roquette Arugula
Roquette Arugula is a classic garden arugula commonly grown for its tender leaves and distinctive peppery flavor. This fast-growing leafy green is especially suitable for indoor gardening because it requires relatively little space and produces harvestable leaves within a few weeks. Its fresh, slightly spicy taste makes it excellent for salads, sandwiches, pasta, and homemade pesto.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Roquette Arugula
- Leaf Color: Medium to dark green
- Leaf Shape: Elongated leaves with rounded or irregular lobes
- Flavor: Peppery, slightly nutty, and mildly bitter
- Harvest Time: Approximately 25–40 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Roquette Arugula prefers cool temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Grow it near a sunny window or under LED grow lights for approximately 12–14 hours daily. Use a lightweight potting mix enriched with organic matter to support healthy growth. Containers at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes are suitable for developing strong roots.
Watering and Maintenance
Water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during seed germination and early leaf development. Avoid excessive watering because saturated soil can encourage root diseases.
Thin seedlings when they develop their first true leaves to prevent overcrowding. Harvest young leaves when they reach approximately 3–4 inches long for the best tenderness and flavor. Remove outer leaves first, allowing the center to continue growing. With proper care, Roquette Arugula can provide several harvests from a single planting.
6. Speedy Arugula
Speedy Arugula is a fast-growing leafy green variety known for its tender leaves and pleasantly peppery flavor. As its name suggests, this variety develops quickly, making it an excellent choice for indoor gardeners who want fresh greens in a short time. Its compact growth and ability to produce young leaves rapidly make it suitable for small containers, windowsill gardens, and indoor growing systems.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Speedy Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright to medium green
- Leaf Shape: Narrow, deeply lobed leaves
- Flavor: Mildly spicy and peppery
- Harvest Time: Approximately 20–35 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Speedy Arugula grows best in cool indoor temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Position containers near a bright window or provide 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Use lightweight, nutrient-rich potting soil with good drainage. Containers at least 6 inches deep allow sufficient space for root development. Maintain proper spacing between seedlings to encourage healthy growth.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil consistently moist without allowing excess water to collect around the roots. Check soil moisture frequently, particularly during germination and early growth.
Thin overcrowded seedlings to improve air circulation and light exposure. Harvest young leaves when they reach approximately 3–4 inches long. Cut the outer leaves carefully while preserving the central growing point. Regular harvesting encourages continued production of tender, flavorful greens.
7. Wasabi Arugula
Wasabi Arugula is a distinctive leafy green known for its sharp, spicy flavor that resembles Japanese wasabi. Its tender green leaves add a bold taste to salads, sandwiches, and Asian-inspired dishes. This variety is particularly appealing to indoor gardeners who enjoy growing unusual salad greens. With proper lighting, moisture, and temperature control, Wasabi Arugula can grow successfully in containers throughout the year.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Wasabi Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright green
- Leaf Shape: Elongated, slightly lobed leaves
- Flavor: Strong, spicy, and wasabi-like
- Harvest Time: Approximately 30–45 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Wasabi Arugula prefers temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Place containers near a bright window or use LED grow lights for approximately 12–14 hours daily. Choose well-draining potting soil containing organic matter to support healthy leaf development. Containers measuring 6–8 inches deep are generally suitable for indoor cultivation. Consistent light and moderate temperatures help maintain tender foliage.
Watering and Maintenance
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Allow the uppermost soil surface to dry slightly before watering again. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal problems and supports healthy growth.
Thin seedlings when necessary to reduce overcrowding. Harvest leaves when they reach approximately 3–5 inches long for a tender texture and strong flavor. Remove mature outer leaves while leaving the center intact. Frequent harvesting encourages new growth and provides a continuous supply of spicy greens.
8. Dragon’s Fire Arugula
Dragon’s Fire Arugula is a distinctive leafy green variety known for its attractive foliage and bold, peppery flavor. It adds visual interest and a spicy taste to fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade dishes. Its relatively compact growth habit makes it suitable for indoor containers, windowsill gardens, and small growing spaces. With proper care, it can provide fresh, flavorful leaves throughout the growing season.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Dragon’s Fire Arugula
- Leaf Color: Green with reddish-purple veins
- Leaf Shape: Elongated, deeply lobed leaves
- Flavor: Bold, peppery, and slightly spicy
- Harvest Time: Approximately 30–45 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Dragon’s Fire Arugula grows best in temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Place containers near a bright window or provide 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Use nutrient-rich, well-draining potting soil and containers at least 6 inches deep. Consistent lighting encourages healthy foliage development, while cooler temperatures help maintain tender leaves and reduce premature flowering.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil consistently moist without allowing water to accumulate around the roots. Water whenever the upper soil layer begins to dry. Thin crowded seedlings to improve airflow and provide enough space for healthy leaf growth.
Begin harvesting when the leaves reach approximately 3–5 inches long. Remove mature outer leaves carefully while preserving the central growing point. Regular harvesting encourages new growth and helps maintain a continuous supply of fresh, peppery greens.
9. Bellezia Arugula
Bellezia Arugula is a flavorful leafy green variety appreciated for its deeply divided leaves and distinctive peppery taste. Its attractive foliage and productive growth make it a suitable option for gardeners interested in growing fresh salad greens indoors. Bellezia can thrive in containers when provided with adequate light, moisture, and nutrients. Its flavorful leaves are excellent for salads, sandwiches, pizza toppings, and garnishes.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Diplotaxis tenuifolia
- Common Name: Bellezia Arugula
- Leaf Color: Medium to dark green
- Leaf Shape: Narrow, deeply lobed leaves
- Flavor: Peppery, spicy, and slightly nutty
- Harvest Time: Approximately 35–50 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Bellezia Arugula prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Position containers near a sunny window or provide approximately 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Choose loose, nutrient-rich soil with good drainage to encourage strong root development. Containers measuring 6–8 inches deep are suitable for indoor cultivation. Maintain adequate spacing to allow good air circulation and healthy leaf production.
Watering and Maintenance
Water regularly to keep the soil moderately moist, allowing the surface to dry slightly between watering sessions. Avoid excessive watering because saturated soil can cause root problems.
Thin overcrowded seedlings and remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain healthy growth. Harvest outer leaves when they reach approximately 3–5 inches long, leaving the central growing point undamaged. Frequent harvesting encourages continued leaf production and helps supply fresh greens over an extended period.
10. Grazia Arugula
Grazia Arugula is a flavorful wild arugula variety known for its deeply divided green leaves and distinctive peppery taste. It produces attractive, tender foliage that adds a spicy flavor to salads, sandwiches, and fresh dishes. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for indoor containers, windowsill gardens, and hydroponic growing systems. With proper lighting and consistent care, Grazia Arugula can provide repeated harvests of fresh leaves.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Diplotaxis tenuifolia
- Common Name: Grazia Arugula
- Leaf Color: Medium to dark green
- Leaf Shape: Narrow, deeply lobed leaves
- Flavor: Strong, peppery, and slightly nutty
- Harvest Time: Approximately 35–50 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Grazia Arugula grows best in temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Place containers near a bright window or provide 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Use loose, nutrient-rich potting soil with good drainage. Containers measuring 6–8 inches deep provide adequate space for healthy root development. Consistent light and moderate temperatures encourage tender, flavorful leaves.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid excessive watering. Check soil moisture regularly and water when the upper layer begins to dry. Thin crowded seedlings to improve air circulation and reduce competition for nutrients.
Harvest mature outer leaves when they reach approximately 3–5 inches long. Leave the central growing point intact to support continued growth. Regular harvesting encourages fresh foliage and extends the productive growing period.
11. Runaway Arugula
Runaway Arugula is a productive leafy green variety valued for its attractive, deeply lobed leaves and bold peppery flavor. This wild arugula type is particularly suitable for gardeners who enjoy harvesting fresh salad greens regularly. Its relatively compact foliage makes it a practical choice for indoor containers, small growing shelves, and windowsill gardens.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Diplotaxis tenuifolia
- Common Name: Runaway Arugula
- Leaf Color: Deep green
- Leaf Shape: Narrow, deeply divided leaves
- Flavor: Spicy, peppery, and slightly bitter
- Harvest Time: Approximately 35–50 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Runaway Arugula prefers cool to moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Provide approximately 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily or place containers near a bright, sunny window. Use well-draining potting soil enriched with organic matter to encourage vigorous leaf growth. Containers at least 6 inches deep are suitable for indoor cultivation. Proper spacing between plants helps improve airflow and prevents overcrowding.
Watering and Maintenance
Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture without allowing the roots to remain saturated. Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between watering sessions. Remove damaged or yellowing leaves to maintain healthy growth.
Begin harvesting when leaves reach approximately 3–5 inches long. Pick mature outer leaves individually while preserving the central growing point. Frequent harvesting encourages continued production and provides a steady supply of fresh, flavorful greens.
12. Surrey Arugula
Surrey Arugula is a leafy green variety appreciated for its tender foliage and distinctive peppery flavor. Its attractive leaves make it a useful addition to fresh salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Surrey can be grown indoors in containers when provided with sufficient light, moderate temperatures, and consistent moisture. It is a practical option for gardeners interested in growing flavorful greens throughout the year.
Identification
- Scientific Name: Eruca vesicaria
- Common Name: Surrey Arugula
- Leaf Color: Bright to medium green
- Leaf Shape: Elongated, lobed leaves
- Flavor: Mildly spicy, peppery, and slightly nutty
- Harvest Time: Approximately 25–40 days
Ideal Indoor Growing Conditions
Surrey Arugula grows best in temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Position containers near a bright window or provide approximately 12–14 hours of artificial grow light daily. Choose lightweight, nutrient-rich potting soil with good drainage. Containers at least 6 inches deep allow sufficient room for healthy root development. Maintain adequate plant spacing to encourage strong foliage and consistent growth.
Watering and Maintenance
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water whenever the upper soil layer begins to dry, particularly during germination and early growth. Thin overcrowded seedlings to improve airflow and allow each plant sufficient space.
Harvest young leaves when they reach approximately 3–4 inches long for the best tenderness and flavor. Remove outer leaves carefully while leaving the central growing point undamaged. Regular harvesting encourages continued leaf production and helps maintain a reliable supply of fresh arugula indoors.
FAQs
1. Which Type of Arugula Is Best for Indoor Growing?
Astro, Apollo, and Speedy Arugula are excellent choices for indoor growing because they grow quickly and produce tender, flavorful leaves. Sylvetta and Grazia are also suitable for indoor containers, especially for gardeners who prefer a stronger, peppery taste.
2. How Long Does Arugula Take to Grow Indoors?
Most garden arugula varieties are ready for baby-leaf harvesting within 20–30 days after planting. Larger leaves generally take 30–45 days. Wild arugula varieties, such as Sylvetta, often grow more slowly and may require 40–60 days before their first harvest.
3. Can Arugula Grow Indoors Without Sunlight?
Yes, arugula can grow indoors without direct sunlight when provided with artificial grow lights. LED grow lights generally work well when used for 12–14 hours daily. Adequate lighting encourages healthy leaf development and prevents weak, elongated growth.
4. Does Arugula Regrow After Cutting?
Yes, arugula can regrow after harvesting if the central growing point remains intact. Remove the mature outer leaves while allowing younger leaves to develop. Regular watering, adequate lighting, and proper nutrition can support several harvests from the same plant.
5. Can You Grow Arugula Indoors Year-Round?
Yes, arugula can grow indoors throughout the year when temperatures, lighting, and moisture are properly controlled. Maintain temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C), provide sufficient artificial light, and plant new seeds every two to three weeks for continuous harvesting.