Komatsuna
Brassica rapa var. perviridis
Partial Shade
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Frost Hardy
9a
USDA zone
-7°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
40cm | Max | 20cm |
20cm | Min | 15cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
Komatsuna Overview
Brassica rapa var. perviridis is commonly known as Komatsuna. This hardy, leafy green is a variety of the Japanese mustard spinach that is technically a brassica. However; its tolerance of cold weather makes it a popular choice for northern hemisphere gardeners to grow over the winter months and it is less likely to bolt when the weather warms up. High in calcium, Iron, Vitamins A and C, this mild mustard tasting green leaf develops more of a bite as the leaves mature. So it is recommended to pick smaller leaves regularly.
Common problems with Komatsuna
Cabbage aphids, cabbage root maggot, cabbageworms , flea Beetles and cutworms may affect cabbages. Control by keeping beds weed free and handpick worms. Avoid wetting foliage if possible to prevent Alternaria porri.
How to harvest Komatsuna
Leaves can be harvested within a few weeks of sowing.
How to propagate Komatsuna
Seed
Do not sow too early in the summer as the plant will bolt. Sowing time should be late summer/autumn with a spacing of 30 cm. Sow between 10 - 15 mm deep.
Special features of Komatsuna
Crop rotation
Heavy Feeder; alternate with legumes, light feeders or other heavy feeders.
Pot plant
Can be grown in containers at least 20cm across.
Other uses of Komatsuna
Culinary
Edibles to Sow Outside in October
In vegetable beds, at the allotment or in the kitchen garden, sow these now to grow over the cooler winter months.
