African Turnip (Erucastrum austroafricanum) is a fast-growing annual herb producing edible leaves and roots. It thrives in sunny, well-drained conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but can tolerate some afternoon shade in very hot climates.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Grows best in temperatures between 15-25°C. Protect from frost and extreme heat.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top centimeter of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or when the plant is dormant, but never let the soil become completely dry, especially for young plants.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pinching back of the tips of young plants can promote a more compact and rounded form.
Pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
Propagate primarily through seeds sown in spring or early summer. Seeds germinate relatively easily in warm, moist conditions.
Cuttings can also be taken from healthy stems, though this method may be less reliable for this species. Ensure good drainage for both methods.
Repot young plants annually or when they become root-bound, typically in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to accommodate root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of African Turnip (Erucastrum austroafricanum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Erucastrum |
| Species | Erucastrum austroafricanum |
Similar in genus Erucastrum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
