Calabrese Broccoli

Calabrese is the classic large-heading broccoli most often seen in supermarkets and farmers markets. It is reliable and space-effective, producing consistently large central heads, and once the main head is cut it sends out many side shoots that yield about 2 to 3 times as much broccoli over a series of smaller harvests.

At a glance

• Variety: Calabrese Broccoli
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Heads: Large central head plus abundant side shoots
• Yield: Side shoots add 2 to 3 times the main head
• Season: Cool season
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Steaming and roasting
• Stir-fries
• Continuous side-shoot harvests
• Cool-season and fall gardens
• Space-efficient plots

How to grow

Start indoors or direct sow in cool weather, in full sun, and keep soil moist. Harvest the main head while the buds are tight, then keep picking side shoots to extend the harvest for weeks.

Flavor profile

Classic, fresh broccoli flavor, sweet and tender when picked young.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family seed company offering affordable heirloom and non-GMO seeds, with a mission to make home gardening accessible to everyone.