Beetroot (Beta vulgaris craca)

Family: Chenopodiaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Beta vulgaris craca is a BIENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet and tender, especially when young, and can be grated and used in salads. — Root - raw or cooked.; Well-grown roots are sweet and tender, especially when young, and can be grated and used in salads.; Beetroots are traditionally boiled until tender then pickled in vinegar and used in salads.; The roots can also be cooked and used as a vegetable, they are sweet and delicious when baked.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild situation. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)