Nine Star Perennial Broccoli

Brassica oleracea botrytis aparagoides

Physical Characteristics

Brassica oleracea botrytis aparagoides is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

A cultivated form of B. oleracea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Immature flowering head - raw or cooked[K]. The plant forms a small cauliflower head in early spring. When this is harvested, another 6 - 12 smaller cauliflowers are produced on sideshoots[K]. The plants are not highly productive, but they are well-flavoured and make an excellent vegetable[K]. Leaves - raw or cooked. They have a mild cabbage flavour and can be harvested all year round, though be careful not to weaken the plant and thereby reduce the yield of flowering heads[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known