Have you ever wondered how many types of broccoli there are? Or what distinguishes your standard supermarket broccoli from the mesmerizing Romanesco?
Learning about broccoli varieties can strengthen your garden, or add to your culinary experience. Whether you’re a gardener looking for a crop to suit your climate or a foodie eager to experiment in the kitchen, there’s a broccoli variety waiting to impress.
We'll break down the types, their genetic and phenotypic differences, and how to choose or grow the best variety for your garden or dinner table!
What Makes Broccoli Varieties Unique?
Every broccoli type originates from the same species, Brassica oleracea, but they differ due to variations in genotype (genetic makeup) and phenotype (observable characteristics). These differences give rise to traits like color, growth patterns, and flavor profiles.
For example:
- Calabrese broccoli (your standard broccoli) has a compact, dark green head.
- Romanesco broccoli has vibrant green fractal patterns and a nutty flavor.
Both belong to the same species but showcase the diversity of broccoli genetics.
What Are the 4 Main Types of Broccoli?
Broccoli isn’t just one kind—it has many varieties, each suited for different climates, culinary uses, and visual preferences. Here are 4 main types and a few more.
Classic Broccoli (Calabrese)
This is a standard broccoli we all recognize. Calabrese grows large with tight green heads with thick stalks that look like tiny trees. These grow well in zones 3-10, giving a long harvest season thanks to its side shoots after the main head is cut.
- Calabrese Varieties:
- Di Cicco: A smaller, bluish-green heirloom with a sweet taste.
- Waltham 29: Cold-hardy and productive, perfect for extended harvests.
Romanesco Broccoli
Romanesco broccoli is a visual masterpiece that resembles a neon-green never-ending pattern. It gives a nutty, mild flavor and crunchier texture. Its spiral head makes a stunning design for plating to impress dinner guests.
Sprouting Broccoli
Known for its small, tender florists. Sprouting broccoli is more delicate than Calabrese, these have a sweeter taste, and its bright colors stand out in dishes. This variety requires overwintering for the best spring harvests.
Two common varieties are:
- Purple Sprouting Broccoli: A UK favorite, this variety has vivid purple florets that turn green when cooked.
- White Sprouting Broccoli: Similar to the purple version but with a milder, sweeter taste.
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)
This variety can be distinguished by its wide glossy leaves and thick stems. A great option for stir-fries despite a slightly bitter taste.
Tip: Soaking in water before cooking will reduce bitterness.
These are two other common varieties:
Broccolini
This type combines Calabrese and Chinese broccoli (Gan Lan). The appearance of this type is long with slender stems and small florets, it takes 25-30 days to grow. Its flavor is mind and sweet, and it is best used for grilling, sauteing, or roasting.
Gowing Tips: Full sun and moderate temperatures. Harvest frequently to encourage continuous production.
Broccoli Rabe (Rapini)
This type is more like a cousin of broccoli, closely related to turnips, popular in southern Italian and Mediterranean cuisines. This type is smaller with spiky florets and leafy stems. Its flavor is bold, slightly bitter, and nutty, it is best used for sauteing, in pasta dishes, or as a side for meats.
Growing Tips: Grows best in cold weather, direct sow seeds in early spring or late summer. They take 25-30 days to grow, so they’re fast-growing broccoli. Ready to harvest when florets are small and before they flower for the best taste.
How to Choose the Best Broccoli Variety for You
Start by asking: What do you need broccoli for?
- For Fresh Eating or Salads: Opt for mild varieties like Broccolini or Romanesco.
- For Freezing and Storing: Choose hardy types like Waltham 29 or Di Cicco.
- For Decorative Gardening: Try varieties like Purple Sprouting Broccoli or Romanesco.
If you’re growing your own
Consider Your Climate- For cooler climates grow Calabrese and Waltham 29.
-
Warmer zones benefit from heat-tolerant types like Destiny or Blue Wind.
- Smaller spaces are best for compact varieties like Destiny, while larger gardens can have enough room for sprawling Purple Sprouting broccoli.
- Want continuous yields? Choose varieties that produce side shoots like Di Cicco or Calabrese.
Top Picks: The Best Broccoli Varieties for Different Needs
- For Beginners:
- Belstar: A hybrid with compact plants and heat resistance, maturing in 66 days.
-
Green Magic: Known for its uniformity and tolerance to summer heat.
- For Flavor Enthusiasts:
- Broccolini: A blend of Calabrese and Chinese broccoli, tender with sweet stalks perfect for grilling.
-
Purple Sprouting Broccoli: A colorful choice with a nutty, slightly peppery flavor.
- For Unique Visuals:
- Romanesco: Ideal for gardeners looking to impress with its striking design.
Broccoli Varieties Chart
Here’s a handy list to help you pick:
Genetics and Phenotypes in Simple Terms
Think of broccoli varieties as family members. They share the same roots but express unique traits. Genotypes (genetic makeup) set the stage—deciding whether a variety will have purple florets or spiral heads—while phenotypes bring these traits to life. For example:
Example 1: Romanesco
- Carries genes for vibrant color and spiral shapes producing the “Fibonacci”-spiral heads we know. (But weather can affect its sharpness or uniformity).
Example 1: Calabrese
-
Designed for cold hardiness, phenotypically shows dark green heads and thick strong stalks.
Tips for Growing Different Broccoli Types
- Timing is Key: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date.
- Space Wisely: Leave room for each plant to expand, especially sprouting broccoli types.
- Harvest with Care: Cut the central head first to encourage side shoot production.
Pro Tip: Use companion planting to repel pests! Pair broccoli with herbs like dill or flowers like marigolds.
Calabrese (Classic Broccoli)
- Tip: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant to cool soil.
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart.
-
Care: Harvest the main head early to encourage side shoots.
- Tip: Plant in late summer for overwintering; requires cold exposure for florets.
- Spacing: 24 inches apart.
- Care: Mulch heavily to protect roots in cold weather.
Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan)
- Tip: Direct sow or transplant in cool weather; harvest young for tender stems.
- Spacing: 6-8 inches apart.
- Care: Water consistently; bolting can occur in heat.
- Tip: Requires consistent cool temperatures; plant in early spring or late summer.
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart.
- Care: Ensure steady moisture and avoid hot weather.
Broccolini
- Tip: Harvest regularly to encourage new side shoots.
- Spacing: 12-18 inches apart.
- Care: Prefers consistent watering and rich soil.
- Tip: Quick grower; sow seeds directly in early spring or late summer.
- Spacing: 6 inches apart.
- Care: Harvest leaves and stems before buds flower.
- Tip: Choose varieties suited to your climate for heat or cold tolerance.
- Spacing: 18-24 inches apart.
- Care: Fertilize every 3-4 weeks for high productivity.
General Advice for All Types:
- Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during head formation.
- Pests: Watch for cabbage worms; use row covers or neem oil as needed.
- Harvesting: Cut heads when tight and before yellowing; avoid leaving overripe.
Which Are You Planting?
Knowing the different types of broccoli gives endless opportunities for gardeners and food enthusiasts alike. From the classic Calabrese to Romanesco, each variety brings unique flavors, colors, and texture to the garden and table.
If you are planting for extended harvests, or experimenting with new culinary styles, broccoli has a variety for every climate.
