Tartar Bread Plant
Crambe tatarica
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Pl. F617 — Crambe tatarica
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IOverview
Overview
Tartar Bread Plant, known botanically as Crambe tatarica, is a hardy perennial that thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil of various types, from light sandy to heavy clay. Native to Europe and Asia, this plant is valued for its edible leaves and roots, which can be enjoyed raw or cooked. One distinctive feature of the Tartar Bread Plant is its ability to grow up to 1 meter tall, making it a noticeable addition to gardens. Its light requirement and soil adaptability make it suitable for various growing conditions, though it is best suited in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Quick answers
What is Tartar Bread Plant?
Tartar Bread Plant, known botanically as Crambe tatarica, is a hardy perennial that thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil of various types, from light sandy to heavy clay. Native to Europe and Asia, this plant is valued for its edible leaves and roots, which can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tartar Bread Plant thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows as a perennial, reaching up to 1 meter in height. The plant's edible parts include leaves and roots, making it versatile for culinary use. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds or division of established plants.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Tartar Bread Plant for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Tartar Bread Plant to gain experience in perennial gardening.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, garden tools like a trowel and rake.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining, suitable for light, medium, or heavy types.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in the ground or transplant young plants, spacing them about 30-45 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain plant health and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and failing to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Tartar Bread Plant's leaves and roots are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically dug up and prepared by boiling before consumption. Both parts add a mild, slightly bitter flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
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