Romanesco Broccoli

Romanesco Broccoli is one of nature's true wonders, forming lime-green heads of florets in a striking conical Fibonacci spiral. Widely grown in northern Italy, this unique vegetable grows much like cauliflower and does not form side shoots like traditional broccoli. It is as delicious as it is stunning on the plate.

At a glance

• Variety: Romanesco Broccoli
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Head: Lime-green, conical Fibonacci spiral
• Habit: Single central head, no side shoots
• Heritage: Northern Italy
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Roasting and steaming
• Showpiece garden vegetables
• Fresh eating and crudites
• Cool-season gardens
• Italian cooking

How to grow

Start seeds indoors and transplant in cool weather, or direct sow for a fall crop, in full sun. Give rich soil and steady moisture for well-formed heads. Like cauliflower, it produces one central head, so harvest before the florets begin to separate.

Flavor profile

Milder and nuttier than standard broccoli, with a tender crunch that sweetens when roasted.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based company known for affordable heirloom seeds that help home gardeners grow more food from every packet.