Kohlrabi
Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes
Botanical family: Brassicaceae
A cultivar of Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes, where the stem swells above the ground into a fleshy ball, white or purple. A variety selected mostly in Central and Eastern Europe (very popular in Alsace, Germany, Poland). Staggered sowings from March to August, harvest from May to November. A fresh, crunchy taste between mild turnip and cabbage heart, delicious raw and grated.
Full sun
Cool, free-draining, rich in humus
Regular
Fairly hardy
Protect over winter in your zone
Role in permaculture
A short-cycle brassica (8 to 10 weeks): ideal as an intercrop or to fill a freed-up bed. To harvest young before the 'bulb' turns fibrous (tennis-ball size maximum).
Good companions
Attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Trap plants (variable effect, need watching)
Aromatic: scent said to confuse pests
Poor companions
Same family: shared diseases and pests
Traditional avoidance (antagonism not demonstrated)
Insects attracted or useful
Known pests & diseases
Pests and diseases that commonly affect this plant, tap to learn how to recognise and manage them.
Seasons & availability
Harvested from May to November.
Available: May, June, July, August, September, October, November.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Kohlrabi » (rhs.org.uk/vegetables/kohl-rabi/grow-your-own)
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture du chou rave » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-du-chou-rave)
- Garden Organic, « Kohl rabi » (gardenorganic.org.uk/expert-advice/how-to-grow/growing-guides/vegetables-herbs-guides/how-to-grow-kohl-rabi)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Like all cabbages, it can be less digestible raw or in large quantity in people with a sensitive gut; gentle cooking improves tolerance. Crucifers contain goitrogenic compounds, without notable consequence at the usual food quantities, but caution is sometimes mentioned in case of a thyroid disorder: in that case, speak to a health professional.
Family behaviour: Brassicaceae
In general, Brassicaceae produce glucosinolates, sulphur compounds with a mild biocidal effect on the soil (a biofumigant effect, sometimes sought between two sensitive crops). Members of the cabbage and mustard family, they are prone to the cabbage white and clubroot.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.