Brassica Oleracea Var. Viridis

Description

Brassica Oleracea Var. Viridis, also known as collard greens or simply collards, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a cultivar of the species Brassica oleracea, which also includes other plants such as cabbage, broccoli, and kale. Collard greens are a staple food in the Southern United States and are also popular in many other countries.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Collard greens have large, dark green leaves that are smooth in texture and have a slightly bitter taste. The leaves can grow up to 2 feet long and are generally oval or lance-shaped. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a rosette of leaves at the base. The flowers are small and yellow and are borne in clusters at the top of the stem.

Care Guide

Collard greens require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. They also need regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Collard greens prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Collard greens can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including aphids, cutworms, flea beetles, and cabbage worms. They can also suffer from fungal diseases such as clubroot and downy mildew. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these problems, as can the use of insecticidal soap and other organic pest control methods.

Habitat

Collard greens are native to the Mediterranean region but are now grown in many parts of the world. They prefer a cool and moist climate and are generally grown as a cool-season crop. In the United States, collards are most commonly grown in the southern states, where they have been a traditional food for centuries.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can collard greens be grown in containers?
  A: Yes, collard greens can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-draining.
• Q: How often should collard greens be fertilized?
  A: Collard greens should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: How do you harvest collard greens?
  A: Collard greens can be harvested by picking individual leaves or by cutting the entire plant at the base.
• Q: Can collard greens be frozen?
  A: Yes, collard greens can be blanched and frozen for later use.

Related Plants

• Brassica oleracea (wild cabbage)
• Brassica oleracea Var. Acephala (kale)
• Brassica oleracea Var. Capitata (cabbage)
• Brassica oleracea Var. Gemmifera (Brussels sprouts)

References

• “Collard Greens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, n.d. Web. 10 May 2021.
• “Collard Greens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 10 May 2021.
• “Brassica oleracea.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 10 May 2021.