Tatsoi (Brassica narinosa) is a small, leafy green vegetable that is native to China. It has been used for centuries in Asian dishes and only recently become popular in the United States. Tatsoi has a tangy mustard flavour and is often used in salads and soups.
Ready for harvest in around 50 days and able to withstand subzero temperatures, Tatsoi is a worthy addition to any sustainable garden.
Other common names include Tat Choy, Chinese Flat Cabbage, Rosette Pak Choi, Broadbeaked Mustard, Spoon Mustard and Spinach Mustard. A similar plant worth researching is Mizuna.
Growth
Tatsoi is a fast-growing hardy plant that reaches the short height of about 10cm (4 inches). It grows dark green, spoon-shaped leaves which can form a thick rosette. The veins and stem are white and sweeter tasting than the leaves. Often grown as an annual, seeds are sown outside after frost has passed or in pots/seed trays no more than three weeks before. Beyond seedling age, Tatsoi can withstand temperatures to –10 °C (15 °F), virtually hardy enough to grow anywhere in Australia.
Although short, the plant grows wide and if transplanting, spacing of up to 40 cm (16 inches) is recommended. In warmer climates its handy to keep in pots to relocate into shady locations during extremely hot periods.
Leaves are ready to harvest in around 50 days but can be pulled off earlier and used as micro greens. Taking outer leaves first reduces damage and promotes fast regrowth. Like most Brassicas, caterpillars and aphids enjoy eating Tatsoi and so its worth planting alongside some of our recommended companions (See Germination Instructions).
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Brassicaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold to Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-10 to 27°C / -14 to 80°F can withstand light frosts and hot temperatures for short periods.
SOIL TYPE:
Soil should be loose and well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full sun will tolerate some shade.
HEIGHT:
Up to 10 cm’s (4 inches) above ground
WIDTH:
Up to 25 cm’s (10 inches)
pH:
6.0-7.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Annual or Biennial depending on climate.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Open pollinated.
MATURITY:
Average 50-60 days
GERMINATION RATES:
96%
GERMINATION TIME:
7-10 days at temperatures between 10-23°C / 50-75°F
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 250
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
EDIBLE:
Yes
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 4 years.
FACTS ABOUT BRASSICA NARINOSA (Tatsoi)
Tatsoi contains high levels of Vitamin C, Carotenoids, Folic Acid, Calcium and Potassium.
The name Tatsoi is Cantonese and literally means drooping vegetable.
