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Tartar Bread Plant

Crambe tatarica
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Crambe tatarica (Tartar Bread Plant) — botanical photograph
Pl. F617 — Crambe tatarica
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Overview

Tartar Bread Plant, scientifically known as Crambe tatarica, is a hardy perennial that thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil, which can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Native to Europe and Asia, this plant is valued for its edible leaves and roots, which can be enjoyed raw or cooked. The leaves add a mild, slightly bitter flavor when used in dishes, while the roots are typically dug up and prepared by boiling before consumption. Growing up to 1 meter tall, the Tartar Bread Plant is a noticeable addition to gardens and is suitable for various growing conditions, particularly in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. Its adaptability to different soil types and light requirements make it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to add a unique and edible plant to their landscape. While the plant is not known for medicinal uses, its edible parts offer a flavorful addition to culinary creations.

Quick answers

What is Tartar Bread Plant?

Tartar Bread Plant, scientifically known as Crambe tatarica, is a hardy perennial that thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil, which can be light (sandy), medium, or 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
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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. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, garden tools like a trowel and rake.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 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. 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. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain plant health and encourage new growth.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight, and failing to prune regularly.

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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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Specimen gallery

1 image
Crambe tatarica (Tartar Bread Plant) — botanical photograph
Tartar Bread Plant (Crambe tatarica)
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