Rutabaga - 'American Purple Top'

Brassica oleracea subsp. rapifera  - 'American Purple Top' Rutabaga

Pot Size: 4-inch deep

Rutabaga roots are a must for hearty soups and stews and casseroles. This easy-to-grow crop provides a root crop that is excellent as a storage crop. Rutabagas are delicious firm, sweet vegetables that are 4-6 inches long. They can be mashed just like potatos, or chunked for other dishes. Their best flavor comes out with cooler weather. The tops are edible and make tasty sauteed greens. 

Sun: Full sun (but cool weather fine)

Spacing/ Planting: 6-8" apart, tops will grow to up to 2 feet

Maturity: 80-120 days

Hardiness: Tolerates cold well; cool season crop 

Photo credit: C. McKowen