Arugula for Bearded Dragons
iStock.com/Rouzes

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Arugula

Arugula is a vegetable closely related to broccoli that is often included in salads. If you're one of those who enjoy arugula's peppery slightly tart flavor, you may find yourself wondering if it's safe for bearded dragons.

The short answer is, yes arugula is safe and very healthy for bearded dragons. Some beardies may not prefer it's taste so read below to see how to prepare this healthy vegetable.

Arugula Nutrition Profile

Below is the reptile nutrition label for arugula. This label was created by us using information provided by USDA and other reputable sources.

Reptile Nutrition

Arugula (raw)Per 100g Serving
Core
Calories25Cal
Water Content91.71g
Carbohydrates3.65g
Total Carbohydrate3.65g
Fiber, total dietary1.6g
Sugars2.05g
Fat0.66g
Total Fat0.66g
Total saturated0.086g
12:00.003g
16:00.072g
18:00.004g
Total monounsaturated0.049g
16:10.001g
18:10.046g
Total polyunsaturated0.319g
18:20.13g
18:30.17g
20:40.002g
Proteins2.58g
Protein2.58g
Betaine0.1mg
Minerals
Calcium, Ca160mg
Copper0.076mg
Iron1.46mg
Magnesium47mg
Manganese0.321mg
Phosphorus, P52mg
Potassium, K369mg
Selenium0.3μg
Sodium27mg
Zinc0.47mg
Vitamins
Vitamin A, IU2373IU
Vitamin A, RAE119μg
Beta-carotene1424μg
Lutein + Zeaxanthin3555μg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)0.044mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)0.086mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)0.305mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)0.437mg
Vitamin B60.073mg
Vitamin B9 (Folate)97μg
Folate (from food)97μg
Folate (dietary equivalent)97μg
Vitamin C15mg
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)0.43mg
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone)108.6μg
Choline15.3mg
Other
Oxalates7mg
pH6.5
Nutrition Scores
Ca:P Ratio3.1:1
Ca:P RatingExceptional
Safe to FeedDaily
HealthinessVery healthy

Notes/Instructions: Remove stems and cut into small pieces.
Show Less
Expand

Arugula Health Concerns

Arugula is a very healthy vegetable for bearded dragons. There are no major health concerns.

The only minor concern is arugula contains 7mg of oxalates, which is a little high. So you should limit arugula to one serving per day.

Arugula Health Benefits

Arugula provides many health benefits for bearded dragons and is best used to complement other foods that may not be as healthy.

Ideal Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio

Arugula contains 3x more calcium than phosphorus. This makes arugula a great choice if you need to add more calcium to your beardies diet without the use of supplements.

How to Prepare Arugula

Arugula is a healthy food that can be served once per day. However, the plant can have a stronger flavor that some beardies may not enjoy so many owners suggest feeding it once a week.

Using baby arugula is preferred as the leaves are easier to digest and the peppery and spicy flavor is not as intense as mature leaves. You should mix other fruits and veggies with the arugula to create a neutral balance of flavors.

Preparation Instructions

Arugula is easy to prepare. As with most veggies you should thoroughly wash the arugula before serving. This will remove any loose debris and chemicals the plant may have come in contact with during transportation and storage.

Remove any of the larger stiff stems that may be difficult for your beardie to digest. Cut the remaining leaves into small pieces that are easy for your beardie to chew (or swallow whole). No pieces should be any larger than the distance between your beardies eyes.

Other Foods

About this Article

Site Menu