About
This is the wild variety from which all edible radishes have been bred. They come in many shapes, sizes and colours; from small globes to long, tapering torpedoes, in shades of red, pink, white, yellow and purple-skinned. If left to flower, the flowers are four-petalled pale yellow or cream on a stem of about 30-40cm.
About the genus
Raphanus can be annual, biennial or perennial herbaceous plants, often with lyrate, glaucous leaves, small, four-petalled flowers and indehiscent fruits. Edible species are cultivated as annual vegetables (radish)
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moisture-retentive soil as long as it isn't too acidic, in full sun. For more advice see radish cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails, and flea beetles
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to brassica downy mildew