Contents
Description
Brassica Oleracea Var. Capitata, commonly known as cabbage, is a leafy green or purple biennial plant. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is widely cultivated for its edible leaves. Cabbage has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and is one of the oldest vegetables known to man. It is widely used in salads, soups, stews, and coleslaw.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Brassica |
Appearance
Cabbage has a round or oval-shaped head, which can grow up to 30 cm in diameter. The leaves are smooth and have a waxy coating on them. The color of the leaves can vary from light green to dark purple, depending on the variety. The stem of the cabbage is short and thick, and the roots are shallow.
Care Guide
Cabbage requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Cabbage requires full sun exposure and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F. It grows best in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect cabbage are aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. These pests can be controlled by applying insecticides or by introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings. The most common diseases that affect cabbage are clubroot, black rot, and downy mildew. These diseases can be prevented by practicing crop rotation and maintaining good soil hygiene.
Habitat
Cabbage is native to the Mediterranean region but is now cultivated worldwide. It grows best in cool and moist climates and is commonly grown in fields, gardens, and greenhouses. Cabbage is a hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of soil types and climatic conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for cabbage to mature?
A: Cabbage takes around 80-180 days to mature, depending on the variety.
Q: How do I know when to harvest cabbage?
A: Cabbage is ready to harvest when the head is firm and the leaves are tightly packed.
Q: Can cabbage be grown in containers?
A: Yes, cabbage can be grown in containers, provided they are large enough to accommodate the root system.
Q: What is the nutritional value of cabbage?
A: Cabbage is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. It also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals.
Related Plants
- Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera (Brussels sprouts)
- Brassica oleracea var. botrytis (cauliflower)
- Brassica napus (rapeseed)
References
- Heiser, C. B. (1973). The cultivated brassicas. University of Arizona Press.
- Simon, J. E., & Chadwick, A. F. (Eds.). (1998). Herbs: An indexed bibliography. CRC Press.
- USDA. (2021). Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata (cabbage). Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BROL2
