18 Best Cruciferous Vegetables You Can Grow

Sheri Dorn is a versatile homesteader and culinary artist with a strong focus on organic and heirloom gardening. Holding a Master's degree in Culinary Arts, she combines her love for cooking and gardening in a unique way. Sheri is an active contributor to online gardening communities and enjoys quality outdoor time with her family and pets.
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If you want to add something tasty yet nutritious food in your daily diet, then check the Best Cruciferous Vegetable List.

Discover the Best Cruciferous Vegetables, offering a unique blend of nutrition and flavor to elevate your meals and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Check 17 Vegetables that are Fruits – The List is Surprising! here


What are Cruciferous Vegetables?

Cruciferous vegetables, a diverse group including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, bok choy, arugula, Brussels sprouts, collards, watercress, and radishes, belong to the mustard family. The term “cruciferous” originates from the Latin Cruciferae, meaning “cross-bearing,” due to the four-petal cross-like structure.

Despite varying in appearance, these vegetables share nutritional benefits. Most contain vitamins and minerals like folate and vitamin K. Dark green cruciferous veggies provide vitamins A and C and phytonutrients. These plant-based compounds may reduce inflammation and cancer risk.

Additionally, they are rich in fiber and low in calories, promoting a feeling of fullness without overeating.

Check 17 Best Vegetables to Grow in 5 Gallon Buckets & 12 Inches Pots here


Best Cruciferous Vegetables

1. Arugula

Cruciferous Vegetables 1
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Botanical Name: Eruca vesicaria

Arugula comes first in the list of cruciferous vegetables. It is a rich source of nitrates and polyphenols and is also quite easy to grow.

2. Broccoli

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Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. italica

Broccoli offers green florets and stalks. This vegetable is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and folate.

Here is How to Grow Broccoli in Pots

3. Horseradish

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Botanical Name: Armoracia rusticana

This cruciferous vegetable is a great source of antioxidants that protect the body from cellular damage.

4. Bok Choy

Stephanie Smith

Botanical Name: Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis

Bok choy is loaded with cancer-fighting compounds; this cruciferous vegetable has a good amount of vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, and folate.

Learn about Growing Bok Choy in Water here

5. Radish

Cruciferous Vegetables 5

Botanical Name: Raphanus sativus

Radish belongs to the Brassicaceae family; it offers a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Here is Everything About Growing Radishes In Containers and pots

6. Brussels Sprouts

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Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera

Brussels sprouts look like mini cabbages. This cruciferous vegetable is a great option as a nutritious side dish or main course.

Here is How to Grow Brussels Sprout in a Pot

7. Kale

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Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea acephala

This Cruciferous vegetable is a superfood; the dark green leaves of kale are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

Here is How to Plant Kale in Containers

8. Rutabaga

Botanical Name: Brassica napus Napobrassica Group

Also known as Swedish turnip, this root cruciferous vegetable looks like a turnip.

9. Cauliflower

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Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

This popular cruciferous vegetable is the best source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and folate.

Learn about Growing Cauliflower in Containers here

10. Turnips

Botanical Name: Brassica rapa subsp. rapa

Antioxidants such as quercetin, tocopherols, ascorbic acid, and beta-carotene, in turnip may contribute to the breakdown of LDL, resulting in reduced levels in the body.

Here is How to Grow Turnips in Containers

11. Watercress

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Botanical Name: Nasturtium officinale

This nutritious cruciferous vegetable grows in water. It is enriched with vitamins A, C, and K. It also has minerals like iron and calcium.

12. Cabbage

Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. capitata

This nutrient-rich, cruciferous vegetable is an amazing source of fiber and vitamin C that makes the immune system strong.

Check out our article on growing cabbage here

13. Wasabi

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Botanical Name: Wasabia japonica

Wasabi has isothiocyanates (ITCs) that give it a pungent taste; it also offers health benefits.

Here is How to Grow Wasabi ANYWHERE

14. Collard Greens

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Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. viridis

This cruciferous vegetable is full of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that offer amazing health benefits.

15. Tatsoi

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Botanical Name: Brassica rapa subsp. narinosa

The plant features dark green spoon-shaped leaves that create a dense rosette. Tatsoi is rich in vitamin C, carotenoids, folic acid, calcium, and potassium.

16. Kohlrabi

Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea Gongylodes Group

Kohlrabi is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can add it to salads and slaws.

Check out our article on growing Kohlrabi in pots here

17. Mustard Greens

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Botanical Name: Brassica juncea

Young plants are suitable for raw use in salads or can be steamed or stir-fried as they mature. The green leaves control the absorption of carcinogens by the body.

18. Chinese Cabbage

Botanical Name: Brassica rapa var. Pekinensis

Napa cabbage offers soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

Here is How to Grow Chinese Cabbage in Pots

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