Calabrese Broccoli seeds
This Italian heirloom was brought to the U.S. around 1910 by Italian immigrants. This is more traditional broccoli that many folks may enjoy regularly. This variety does extremely well in early and late during the growing season. Calabrese broccoli can reach up to 30"- 60". Each plant will produce a thick stalk with one large dark green-blue crown on top.
Fret not about growing this all season for just one crown. After the crown is cut, multiple side shoots will begin to grow multiple baby crowns. If you are still craving fresh broccoli, go ahead and finish the stalk off as it's edible and has the exact same taste as the top crown. One plant can go a long way on the dinner table.
The maturity date for Calabrese broccoli is 60 - 90 days, depending on your growing season. The crowns will reach 5"- 6" across. You will need full sun when you sow your seeds or transplant them. These can be started indoors and transplanted. Equally, you can grow these in containers as long as your container is a minimum of 5 gallons. A little larger is better, however.
Seed count: 200
Botanic name:
Brassica oleracea
Plant spacing:
12 - 16 inches
Color:
Dark green
Sowing depth:
1/2" deep
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
Delicious raw, sauteed, steamed, grilled, or fried (i.e. tempura), freezes well.
Frost hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
70-80 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Calabrese, Asparagus Broccoli, Cape Broccoli, Italian Broccoli, Purple Cauliflower, Sprouting Broccoli
