Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex', Dwarf Essex Rape (Turnip Greens)
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Annuals

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex'

Dwarf Essex Rape (Turnip Greens)

BrassicaceaeEurope

At a Glance

Typevegetable
Habitcompact rosette
Foliagedeciduous
Height12-18 inches
Width12-15 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

2a - 9b
Zone 2a
Zone 2b
Zone 3a
Zone 3b
Zone 4a
Zone 4b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' is a compact, fast-growing cool-season annual vegetable prized for its nutritious leafy greens. This cultivar produces thick, succulent leaves with a distinctive blue-green color and smooth texture, growing in a dense rosette formation that typically reaches 12-18 inches in height. The leaves are oval to oblong with slightly serrated margins and prominent white midribs, offering a mild, slightly peppery flavor similar to turnip greens but more tender. When allowed to bolt, Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' produces tall flower stalks bearing clusters of small, four-petaled yellow flowers typical of the mustard family, followed by elongated seed pods.

Native Range

Brassica napus is believed to have originated from the hybridization of wild cabbage and turnip species in the Mediterranean region and western Europe. This species has been cultivated for thousands of years and is now found throughout temperate regions worldwide.

Suggested Uses

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers for fresh greens production. Excellent for succession planting in cool seasons, cut-and-come-again harvesting, and as a quick-growing cover crop. The tender leaves are perfect for salads, stir-fries, and braising, while the compact size makes it ideal for small-space gardening and urban farming applications.

How to Identify

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' can be identified by its characteristic blue-green, smooth leaves arranged in a compact rosette pattern, distinguishing it from other brassicas like kale or collards which have more textured foliage. The leaves have prominent white midribs and slightly serrated edges, and when crushed, emit a mild mustard-like aroma. The compact, dwarf growth habit sets this cultivar apart from standard rape varieties, rarely exceeding 18 inches in height before bolting.

Appearance

Bloom Information

late spring to early summer when bolting

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

bright yellow

Foliage Description

blue-green with white midribs

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, consistent moisture

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

6-8 weeks

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' thrives in cool weather and requires consistent moisture for optimal leaf production. Water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during dry periods, as drought stress can cause premature bolting and bitter leaves. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to promote lush leaf growth. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continued production, and protect from flea beetles with row covers if necessary.

Pruning

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' requires minimal pruning beyond regular harvesting. Remove flower stalks immediately if they appear to prevent bolting and maintain tender leaf production. Pinch off any yellowing or damaged outer leaves to promote healthy growth and prevent disease. If plants begin to bolt despite cool weather, cut back the entire plant to 2-3 inches above soil level to encourage new growth.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' is generally safe for human consumption when properly prepared. However, raw leaves contain goitrogens that can interfere with thyroid function if consumed in very large quantities. The plant is safe for most livestock but should be fed in moderation to prevent potential digestive issues.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

direct sow

Direct Sow Timing

early spring or fall, 2-4 weeks before last frost

Days to Maturity

45–60 days

Plant Spacing

6 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

lettuce
spinach
radishes
peas
carrots

Avoid Planting With

tomatoes
strawberries
pole beans
Brassica napus 'Dwarf Essex' (Dwarf Essex Rape (Turnip Greens)) - Identification & Care Guide | PlantRef