Edible root vegetable, species Raphanus sativus.
Radishes are an edible root vegetable, species Raphanus sativus in the Brassicaceae family. Originally domesticated in Europe in pre-Roman times, radishes are now grown and eaten throughout the World.
Radishes grow best in full sun, in light soils. Due to the huge number of varieties available and in cultivation, they are available year-round in Europe and Japan especially.
As well as different seasonal varieties, radishes come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors (including red, pink, gray-black, yellow).
Radishes are usually grown for use as a root vegetable although the entire plant is edible and the leaves can be used as a leaf vegetable. Bulbs are eaten raw, or steamed; and typically consumed in salads.
Radishes can also be grown for seed oil, with wild radish seeds containing up to 48% oil. This oil is not suitable for human consumption but is a potential biofuel for cool climates.
Use this tag for all questions about growing radishes.
