Rutabaga (Brassica napus)

Rutabaga

Also known as: Oilseed rape, Canola, Colza, Rapeseed oil seed, Snagger

Rutabaga is a well-known root vegetable in many countries. All parts of the plant are edible, but the fleshy root is commonly cooked and enjoyed in a variety of ways. Baked, steamed, mashed, and boiled are just a few of the ways to enjoy rutabagas. This vegetable is a filling and gives substance to soups and stews, or provides a hearty side dish.

Scientific classification

Species

Rutabaga (Brassica napus)

Mustards, capers, and allies

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Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

1.7 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Rutabaga

Distribution of Rutabaga

Distribution Map

Rutabaga is native to Europe. It is found in damp soil close to waterways. It has been introduced as a crop to all continents except Antarctica.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Banks of streams, ditches, arable fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Rutabaga is not commonly grown in private gardens. It is usually commercially cultivated as livestock fodder or to produce grapeseed oil. In some areas, it has escaped cultivation and grows as weed in disturbed areas. It competes for bee pollination with clover and alfalfa, and so it should be kept separate.

Symbolism

Profit

Interesting Facts

Rutabaga was referenced as early as 1620 by botanist Gaspard Bauhin in Sweden. From there, it was discovered in Germany, and arrived in England in 1750 and made its way to Scottland around the 1780s. It was then found in North America in the early 1800s. Rutabaga was used extensively for food during World War I and World War II. It was often made into a stew with only water and rutabaga as ingredients.

Name Story

Rutabaga: Rutabaga, or Brassica napus, is a root vegetable. The word rutabaga is popular in North America and comes from the Swedish word, rotabagge. Rotabagge is a combination of two words that mean root and bunch. It is also known as a Swedish turnip. In many regions, it is simply known as a swede.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Rutabaga, including the following common varieties :

Rutabaga 'Tweed'

Quickly Identify Rutabaga

Spherical taproot with purple, white, or yellow exterior and vibrant yellow inner flesh.

10 cm long sickle-shaped pods turning brownish upon drying, splitting to disperse seeds.

Thick, bluish-hued, lobed leaves up to 30 cm long with fleshy, veined texture.

Stout, swollen stem forming crown close to ground, green with purple tinges, 5 cm diameter.

Small, light yellow flowers in raceme clusters with scentless, cross-like petals in late spring.

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Care Guide for Rutabaga

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Native to Europe, rutabaga thrives in moist soil with consistent hydration, requiring watering twice weekly. It tolerates brief droughts but benefits from mulching, which retains moisture and reduces watering frequency. This outdoor plant is often grown for its edible root.

Fertilize: For rutabaga, use high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizers monthly during active growth, decreasing in cooler months. Choose a balanced, slow-release formula, and water after fertilization to prevent root burn. Young rutabaga may need more nitrogen for vigorous growth and optimal yield.

Pruning: Rutabaga is a root vegetable with a large, edible tuber. Prune dead leaves in early to late spring for improved air circulation and disease prevention. Clean cuts with sanitized tools enhance root development and yield, making pruning essential for a healthy garden.

Propagation: Rutabaga propagates by sowing in spring, with moderate difficulty. Successful propagation is indicated by consistent germination and healthy roots. Optimal growth requires proper soil preparation and moisture conditions.

Repotting: Rutabaga requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, ensuring proper water management and preventing root rot.

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