Chinese Cabbage

Brassica rapa pekinensis

Physical Characteristics

Brassica rapa pekinensis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

A cultivar of garden origin.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[116, 160, 171]. A crisp, watery texture with a naturally sweet taste, it is best eaten raw in salads[116, 206]. The plant can be eaten as a young seedling, or left to grow into a mature plant[206]. The flavour is quickly ruined by prolonged cooking[206]. Leaves can also be dried for winter use[206]. The heads of mature plants can be 50cm long and weigh up to 4.5 kg[200, 206]. Fresh leaves do not store well and are best used within a day or two of harvesting[206]. A nutritional analysis is available[218]. Flowering shoots - raw or cooked[206]. Sweet and tender[133].

Medicinal Uses

Depurative The leaves are depurative[218].

Known Hazards

None known