Description

Broccoli ‘Raab’, also called ‘Rapini’, is an Italian heirloom annual to 30cm, 20cm wide. It is a quick-growing, cool season plant. This variety has no central head; instead it has long stems and small heads, which are best harvested at about 15cm tall. The leaves, stems and flower heads are edible. ‘Raab’ has a slightly bitter, mustard flavour. The plants are robust and high yielding.
Broccoli plants are gross feeders and need rich soil. Feed fortnightly with a liquid organic feed. They will need protection from aphids and the caterpillars of butterflies and moths.
Broccoli ‘Raab’, Brassica rapa, is the same species as Bok Choi, Choy Sum, Tatsoi, Turnip, and some varieties of mustards, including Mizuna and Komatsuna, so they may cross-pollinate. If growing for seed, allow only one variety to flower at a time. Seeds are collected from the small pods that develop after the plant has gone to flower, usually in the second year. Allow the pods to turn brown and dry on the plant. Cover with an organza or paper bag to stop seeds spreading throughout the garden.