Brassica rapa

Brassica rapa — the versatile species behind European turnips and the oriental greens (pak choi, Chinese cabbage, mizuna), each domesticated separately. Central to our Asian greens and turnip ranges.

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Brassica rapa — turnips, pak choi and oriental greens

Brassica rapa is a hugely varied species in the cabbage family, covering the European turnip and a whole world of oriental vegetables — pak choi, Chinese cabbage, mizuna, mibuna and turnip-rooted types. It runs through our Asian greens, leafy brassicas and turnip ranges.

History & origin

Like its relative Brassica oleracea, this species was domesticated more than once. In Europe and Central Asia it was selected for the swollen root we call the turnip — one of the oldest cultivated vegetables, a staple long before the potato arrived. In East Asia, quite separately, the same species was developed into the leafy oriental greens such as pak choi and Chinese cabbage that are central to the region's cooking. A third line gave the oilseed known as turnip rape.

Its name is simple and old: Brassica is the Latin for cabbage and rapa the Latin for turnip.

Botanical characteristics

The species ranges from fast leafy greens cut young for salads and stir-fries to quick-maturing turnips grown for their mild, sweet roots. Most are fast and cool-season, and many bolt in summer heat, so spring and autumn are their best windows. The leafy types are some of our quickest fast-growing vegetables, while turnips sit among the root vegetables.

Growing Brassica rapa from seed

Sow direct in the cooler halves of the year for the best results, keeping the soil moist so plants grow fast and sweet rather than bolting or turning woody. Protect young leaves from flea beetle, which can pepper them with little holes. Our vegetable sowing calendar shows the timing and our pest control guide helps keep them clean.

Ready to grow these? Browse the varieties or learn the basics first.

Related categories: Asian Greens · Leafy Brassicas · Turnip · Fast-Growing Veg · All Vegetables

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brassica rapa?
A single species covering the turnip and many oriental greens such as pak choi, Chinese cabbage and mizuna.

Where does it originate?
It was domesticated separately — the turnip in Europe and Central Asia, the leafy greens in East Asia.

What does the name mean?
Brassica is Latin for cabbage and rapa is Latin for turnip.

Is it the same as Brassica oleracea?
No — it is a separate species, though it also takes many forms.

How do I grow it?
Sow in the cooler seasons, keep the soil moist, and protect young leaves from flea beetle.