What are the varieties of cauliflower? An introduction to the benefits and effects of broccoli
Broccoli is a perennial overwintering herbaceous plant of the genus Brassica in the crucifer family. Because the part eaten is mainly the flower stalk formed by dense flower buds, it is called broccoli. It originated along the coast of Western Europe and came from a wild variety of cabbage. Its cultivation history is earlier than that of cauliflower. At present
Broccoli is a perennial overwintering herbaceous plant of the genus Brassica in the crucifer family. Because the part eaten is mainly the flower stalk formed by dense flower buds, it is called broccoli.
It originated along the coast of Western Europe and came from a wild variety of cabbage. Its cultivation history is earlier than that of cauliflower. At present, it is cultivated most in Italy. It was introduced to Taiwan, China from the United States for cultivation at the end of World War II.
Production Period and Producing Areas
Broccoli is produced throughout the year in Taiwan, China, but the peak production period is from November to April, while the other months are the off-season. The producing areas are concentrated in Chiayi, Changhua, Yunlin, and others.
Cultivated Varieties
At present, the cultivated varieties in Taiwan, China roughly include Green Crown, Green King, Akitsu, Cuiguang, Sakata Silk Eighteen, and others.
1. Green Crown: The stem is thick and short, the buds are medium-fine, and the head is deep green. It is suitable for sowing from August to February. It takes about 55 to 60 days from planting to harvest. It has excellent quality and is suitable for fresh supply and frozen processing.
2. Green King: The plant grows vigorously, the stem is thick and large, there are few side shoots, the flower buds are fine, and the quality is excellent. It is suitable for sowing from July to March. It takes about 58 to 65 days from planting to harvest, and it is also suitable for summer cultivation at high altitude.
3. Akitsu: The flower clusters are small and tight, and the side shoots are medium. It is suitable for sowing from September to February. It can be harvested 60 to 65 days after planting and has strong adaptability to the environment.
4. Cuiguang: The head is dark green, and the buds are small, fine, and tight. It is suitable for planting from August to February. It takes about 50 days from planting to harvest and is suitable for fresh supply and processing uses.
5. Sakata Silk: The stem is not prone to hollowing, but the flower buds tend to yellow under high temperatures, affecting quality. It can be harvested 55 to 60 days after transplanting and is suitable for fresh supply and frozen processing.
Purchasing Guidelines
When purchasing, those with thick, short, non-hollow stems, green heads, tightly packed rather than loose buds, and no yellowing are preferred.
Nutritional Value
Broccoli contains abundant vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and carotene, and is quite effective for poor eyesight and dry skin.
Broccoli is suitable for stir-frying, blanching, or serving as a salad after blanching, which is also very tasty. In addition, after the stem is peeled, it can be salted into pickles or cured into vegetable hearts.