English Name: MUSTARD SPINACH
Asian Name: komatsuna
Latin Name: Brassica rapa
Description:
- A hardy upright annual to a height of 1m.
- It has large dark green, glossy leaves, about 25cm long and 15cm wide.
- The plants produce yellow flowers that typically have four petals.
- Very quick and easy grower.
- Mustard spinach has a distinct flavour, described as a combination of Chinese Cabbage and Spinach, with a hint of mustard.
Harvesting:
- Harvest the very young leaves continuously – ‘cut and come again’.
- It is possible to harvest the whole plant about 2cm above the soil and it will re-shoot.
Best Results:
- Add lots of organic matter before planting.
- Water regularly and heavily as Komatsuna have deep roots.
- Mustard spinach prefers rich, loamy soils but will grow in a wide range of garden soils.
- Plant in a full sun or part shade position.
Uses:
- Baby leaves are great for salads.
- Komatsuna is perfect in Japanese dishes.
- The young leaves, stalks and flower stems can be used in stir-fries.
- Can be pickled in salt.