Brassica rapa var. japonica — Upright, Bushy, Columnar

Overview

Brassica rapa var. japonica is a upright, bushy, columnar annual biennial in the genus Brassica, part of the Brassicaceae family, with evergreen, glaucous leaves foliage. Brassica rapa var. japonica grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include vegetable gardens and ornamental plantings.

About

Brassica rapa var. japonica is a cultivar within the Brassica genus, which includes a range of annual and biennial plants known for their upright, bushy, and columnar growth habit. This cultivar features evergreen, glaucous leaves and thrives in full sun, ideally in south- or west-facing, sheltered locations. It prefers fertile, firm, well-drained alkaline or neutral soils such as loam, sand, or chalk, with consistent moisture. Suitable for vegetable gardens and ornamental plantings, it is hardy to UK zone H5 and is typically grown from seed. Its season of interest spans spring through to autumn.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Brassica

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Loam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Brassica rapa var. japonica size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Upright, Bushy, Columnar
Foliage: Evergreen, Glaucous leaves
Suggested uses: Vegetable gardens, Ornamental plantings

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Brassica rapa var. japonica

Propagation: Seed
Pest resistance: Flea beetle, Cabbage root fly, Cabbage white butterfly, Aphids, Snails, Pigeons
Disease resistance: Club root, Downy mildew, White rust, Black leaf spot, Powdery mildew, Damping off, White mold, Root knot nematodes

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Brassica rapa var. japonica?

Brassica rapa var. japonica prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Brassica rapa var. japonica need?

Brassica rapa var. japonica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and chalk. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Brassica rapa var. japonica hardy in the UK?

Brassica rapa var. japonica has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Brassica rapa var. japonica?

Seed.

More in the Brassica genus

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