Broccoli

is an edible green plant in the cabbage family (family Brassicaceae, genus Brassica) whose large flowering head, stalk, and small associated leaves are eaten as a vegetable. The word broccoli comes from the Italian plural of broccoli, which means “the flowering crest of a cabbage”, and is the diminutive form of broccoli, meaning “small nail” or “sprout”.

Seasons/Availability

Broccoli is harvested year-round, though it is a cool-weather crop with a peak season from October through April.

Current Facts

Broccoli grows in two common forms: broccoli calabrese (sprouting broccoli) and heading broccoli, which is also known as cauliflower broccoli, as its shape resembles the same dense curd shape as cauliflower.

Nutritional Value

Broccoli has been widely known to be a valuable source of carotenoids that have antioxidant properties capable of preventing and reducing risks of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.