Brassica

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Brassica

Brassica
Genus:Brassica
Family:Brassicaceae
Type:Annual, Biennial, Subshrub
Soil requirements:Neutral to alkaline
Pest issues:Numerous
Disease issues:Numerous
Sowing methods:In flats or in situ
Pollination:Insects

Brassica is the type genus of the mustard family, Brassicaceae. The members of the genus may be collectively known either as cabbages, or as mustards.

This genus is remarkable for containing more important agricultural and horticultural crops than any other genus. It also includes a number of weeds, including both wild taxa and escapees from cultivation. It includes over 30 wild species and hybrids, and numerous additional cultivars and hybrids of cultivated origin. Most are annuals or biennials, but some are small shrubs.

The genus is native in the wild in western Europe, the Mediterranean and temperate regions of Asia. In addition to the cultivated species, which are grown worldwide, many of the wild species grow as invasive or naturalised weeds, especially in North America, South America, and Australia.

Almost all parts of some species or other have been developed for food, including the root (Rutabaga, Turnip), stems (kohlrabi), leaves (Cabbage, brussels sprouts), flowers (cauliflower, broccoli), and seeds (many, including mustard seed, oilseed rape). Some forms with white or purple foliage or flowerheads, are also sometimes grown for ornament.

Brassica species are sometimes used as food plants by the larvae of a number of Lepidoptera species - see w:List of Lepidoptera which feed on Brassicas.

Species

There is some disagreement among botanists on the classification and status of Brassica species and subspecies. The following is an abbreviated list, with an emphasis on economically important species.

Deprecated species names

Pests and diseases

Bacteria:

Fungi:

Phytoplasma:

Nematodes:

Nutrient Deficiencies:

Aphids

Whiteflies

Bugs

Thrips

Maggots

Beetles

Weevils

Caterpillars

Slugs and Snails

References

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