Gai lan, kai-lan, Chinese broccoli,[1] or Chinese kale (Brassica oleraceavar.alboglabra)[2] is a leafy vegetable with thick, flat, glossy blue-green leaves with thick stems, and florets similar to (but much smaller than) broccoli. A Brassica oleraceacultivar, gai lan is in the group alboglabra (from Latin albus "white" and glabrus "hairless"). When gone to flower, its white blossoms resemble that of its cousin Matthiola incana or hoary stock. The flavor is very similar to that of broccoli, but noticeably stronger and slightly more bitter.[3]
Gai lan plant growing in a vegetable garden
Cultivation
Gai lan is a cool season crop that grows best between 18 and 28°C (64 and 82°F). It withstands hotter summer temperatures better than other brassicas such as broccoli or cabbage. Gai lan is harvested around 60–70 days after sowing, just before the flowers start to bloom. The stems can become woody and tough when the plant bolts.[4] It is generally harvested for market when 15–20cm (6–8in) tall; however, it can also be produced as "baby gai lan." The "baby" version is cultivated through crowding of seedings and generous fertilization; they resemble Brussels sprouts although they have looser folds.[5]
Hybrids
Broccolini is a hybrid between broccoli and gai lan.[6]
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