Kosaitai
Brassica rapa var purpurea
 Kosaitai
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Seed #156 |
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This flowering purple stem choy sum, also known as kosaitai or hon tsai tai, is a popular Chinese specialty vegetable. The leaf stalks and veins are purple while the leaves are dark green and the flowers are yellow. Low temperatures intensify the colors. Best grown as a fall/winter crop—the plants will bolt early when sown in spring to summer. Kosaitai can be cut young and will re-grow for additional harvests.
- Warm season annual
- Approx. 1400-1500 seeds in packet. (A seed will vary in weight and size within a given seed lot. The number of seeds stated is only an estimate.)
- Maturity: Approx. 50 days
- Planting season: Late summer to early fall
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Available in 0.5-lb increments, minimum 0.5 lb.
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Cultivation: Prefers cool temperatures. Prepare fertile, well-drained soil. Sow seeds in late summer/early fall. Keep soil moist. Fertilize as needed. Harvest main stalk when it reaches 10-14" tall and just before flowering occurs. After this cut, the plant branches freely for an extended harvest.
Germination
Temperature |
Seed
Depth |
Seed
Spacing |
Thin
To |
Row
Distance |
| 68-77°F |
1/4" |
1-2" |
8-10" |
18-24" |
Please note: Maturity, adaptability and disease tolerance may differ under your specific climate and/or growing conditions.
Culinary tips: The young flowering shoots add a mild mustard flavor to fresh salads. Cook by lightly steaming, boiling or stir-frying.
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