Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
BROCCOLI RAAB, TURNIP RAPE
Brassica rapa
ssp.
oleifera
This subspecies is the oldest crop form of
Brassica rapa
. The wild form comes from northern Africa
and the Mediterranean region, though the crop form has been known to naturalize itself. Turnip rape
was once one of the most important oil and fodder plants of Europe and the Middle East, the oil being
used in lamps and for cooking. It has been grown less and less in the last several decades. Spring vari-
eties are planted in the spring and harvested later that same year; winter varieties are planted in autumn
and harvested the following summer. Broccoli raab (also known as broccolette and rapini) is a special
variety from Italy that produces no “turnip” but rather swollen flower heads, like broccoli, though
these are individual and ripen one after the other over a long period. Its feathered leaves, which are of-
ten sold as entire rosettes, are ideal for winter salads and can be prepared like Chinese cabbage or
broccoli. Broccoli raab is fast growing (40 to 90 days to harvest) and produces seed in one growing
season. Select those plants that stay in the bud stage for the longest amount of time.
Broccoli raab
COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK/© GVICTORIA
MIZUNA, POTHERB MUSTARD
Brassica rapa
ssp.
nipposinica
Mizuna has been grown in home gardens in the USA for salad greens for about 60 years. Originally
from Japan, it is also now being grown in European gardens. The plant grows quickly and its spicy
leaves can be used like arugula in salads and sandwiches. It produces seeds the first year; select for
plants that flower the latest (bolting resistance).
