Contents
Description
Brassica Rapa Subsp. Pekinensis is a leafy vegetable that is commonly known as Chinese cabbage or Napa cabbage. This plant has a unique shape that looks like a long and cylindrical head. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is an annual plant that grows up to 12-18 inches tall. The plant’s leaves are smooth and have a pale green color, while its stems are white and crisp.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Brassica |
Appearance
Chinese cabbage has a unique shape that looks like a long and cylindrical head. The plant’s leaves are smooth and have a pale green color, while its stems are white and crisp. The leaves are tightly packed together, forming a compact head. The leaves are also slightly crinkled, giving them a frilly appearance. When mature, the plant can reach up to 12-18 inches tall.
Care Guide
To grow Brassica Rapa Subsp. Pekinensis, it is important to provide it with the right care. Here are some important tips:
Water
Chinese cabbage needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Use a balanced fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Chinese cabbage prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
Chinese cabbage needs at least six hours of sunlight each day. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow well in full shade.
Hardiness Zones
Chinese cabbage grows best in hardiness zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chinese cabbage is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, cabbage worms, flea beetles, and clubroot. To prevent these problems, use insecticides and fungicides as needed. Keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris to reduce the risk of disease.
Habitat
Chinese cabbage is native to China and is widely grown in East Asia. It prefers cool temperatures and can be grown in both spring and fall. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Chinese cabbage to mature?
A: Chinese cabbage takes about 70-80 days to mature.
Q: How many types of Chinese cabbage are there?
A: There are two types of Chinese cabbage: Napa cabbage and bok choy.
Q: Can Chinese cabbage be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Chinese cabbage can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep.
Q: What is the nutritional value of Chinese cabbage?
A: Chinese cabbage is low in calories and high in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
Related Plants
- Brassica Oleracea
- Brassica Rapa
- Brassica Juncea
References
- https://www.burpee.com/gardenadvicecenter/vegetables/chinese-cabbage/growing-chinese-cabbage/article10282.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/cabbage/growing-chinese-cabbage.htm
- https://www.almanac.com/plant/chinese-cabbage
