Organic 'Big Stem' Chinese Broccoli
Organic 'Big Stem' Chinese broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage variety with large, crisp stems
'Big Stem' Chinese broccoli develops upright, vigorous plants characterized by a deep, dark green color and thick, long, fleshy stems . Unlike common broccoli, it is grown primarily for its stems and leaves , which offer a crisp texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor highly prized in Asian cuisine. The stems typically reach 30 to 45 cm in length at harvest, while retaining excellent tenderness.
This heirloom, open-pollinated Chinese broccoli is distinguished by its good cold tolerance and slow bolting , allowing for a comfortable harvest window. It adapts well to cool-season crops and produces consistently when conditions are stable. The flowers are edible , adding culinary interest to this versatile and productive plant.
Companion plants: Alliums, Lettuce, Brassicaceae (except mustard), Oregano, Bush beans, Celery, Rosemary
Nefarious plants: Asparagus, Solanaceae, Strawberry, Mustard, Climbing bean
Spread/Carry: Upright, slender
Plant height: 60 to 90 cm
Quantity per pack: —
Certification: Environmentally friendly product
Special features: Chinese heritage variety, long and thick stems, slow bolting, cold tolerant, edible flowers
Leaf color: Dark green
Texture/flavor: Crisp stems, sweet and fresh flavor
Cold tolerance: Down to -7°C
Farming method
Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for up to 12 hours to promote even germination. Start the seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before planting out , then transplant outdoors once all risk of severe frost has passed . Sow at a depth of 0.6 to 1.2 cm , spacing plants 45 to 60 cm apart and rows 60 to 90 cm apart, in rich, moist, well-drained soil .
Chinese broccoli prefers full sun (level 3) and moderate watering (level 2) . Cool temperatures promote slow growth and better stem quality.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest when the stems are well-developed and the flower buds are still tightly closed , before the flowers open. Check frequently, as quality is optimal over a relatively short period. Cool immediately after harvesting to preserve freshness. Store at 0°C for 1 to 2 weeks .
Usage ideas
• Sliced stems stir-fried in a wok
• Green vegetable for Asian dishes
• Quick steam cooking
• Use of the leaves and flowers
• Fresh seasonal harvest
'Big Stem' Chinese broccoli offers an elegant and productive alternative to traditional broccoli, showcasing the stem as much as the leaf . A reliable heirloom variety, ideal for cool-season gardens and Asian-inspired cuisine.
