Beta vulgaris cicla
Beta vulgaris cicla
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Pl. C173 — Beta vulgaris cicla
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IOverview
Overview
Beta vulgaris cicla, commonly known as leaf beet or sugar beet greens, is a biennial plant closely related to the beet and is valued for its edible leaves and stalks. Native to Europe, this leaf vegetable thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 0.9 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8. One distinctive feature of Beta vulgaris cicla is its ability to produce a milder flavor compared to other beet varieties, making it popular for salads and cooked dishes. Another notable characteristic is its ornamental value, with attractive green foliage that can add color to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Beta vulgaris cicla?
Beta vulgaris cicla, commonly known as leaf beet or sugar beet greens, is a biennial plant closely related to the beet and is valued for its edible leaves and stalks. Native to Europe, this leaf vegetable thrives in full sun with moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Beta vulgaris cicla thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4 to 8. This biennial plant grows up to 0.9 meters tall and produces edible leaves and stems. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagate via seed directly sown into the garden bed or started indoors before transplanting.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Biennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.9 m tall
- Seed viability
- 2-3 years
For first-time growers
How to grow Beta vulgaris cicla for the first time
7steps
Start with Beta vulgaris cicla for a simple and rewarding gardening experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in late summer for fall harvests.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and moist.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spacing them about 20-30 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have several true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist and protect from extreme heat with light mulch if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Thin plants to 30-45 cm apart as they grow.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Harvest outer leaves when the plant is about 12 inches tall. Cut stems and lower leaves for a more complete harvest.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesStem
Edible uses: The Beta vulgaris cicla, commonly known as Swiss chard, is an edible leaf vegetable where both the leaves and stalks can be consumed. The leaves are typically eaten raw in salads or cooked by sautéing, steaming, or boiling. The stalks are often used similarly to other vegetables like celery or asparagus, sometimes being prepared separately due to their thicker texture. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c1735eb5-7d61-4d45-9c86-6e934d57f877
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