Brassica rapa (Ruvo Group)

The Ruvo Group includes broccoli raab, rapini, broccoletti, and broccoletti di rape and is in the mustard family (Brassicaceae). They are biennials grown as annuals and originated in Europe. The genus name Brassica is Latin for cabbage.  

These plants will grow up to a foot tall and prefer fertile moist well-drained soils in full sun to light shade. Keep seedlings evenly moist and continue to water during dry spells. Get a soil test before planting and fertilize according to the recommendations. These are cool-season plants and can be planted for a spring or fall crop. Seeds can be planted in early spring and harvested for greens or allowed to mature. For mature plants, harvest just before the flower buds begin to open. For a fall crop, plant seeds mid to late summer. Row covers may help decrease insect damage. 

The plants resemble broccoli, but the edible buds are in small clusters rather than one large one. The leaves have a zesty, slightly bitter taste that is often utilized in Italian and Asian dishes.  It can be steamed, broiled, fried and sautéed.  

Use in the edible and winter garden.

Problems, Pests and Diseases: Aphids, whiteflies, flea beetles, and caterpillars such as cabbage loopers, cutworms, and beet army worms. Slugs and snails may also be a problem. Diseases include club root, white rust, leaf spot, and rots such as damping off and bacterial soft rot.

If not contained, it has been known to become weedy.