Crops in: 180 Days

Height: 15 feet

Description: A peculiar vegetable for the garden, the stout stems which carry a crown of 'greens' can be used to make walking sticks. Plants reach up to 2.1m (7ft) from an early spring sowing, and up to 3m (10ft) in the second year! A real talking point.

Sowing Instructions: Sow late March to April, thinly into a well-prepared seed bed, 1cm (½ inch) deep in drills 75cm (30 inches) apart.

Growing Instructions: Thin seedlings to 10cm (4 inches) apart when large enough to handle, then later transplant to final position, allowing 75cmx75cm (30x30 inches) between plants. Firm plants in well, and water well until established.

Aftercare Instructions: Provide a moist, rich, well-fertilised soil and sheltered situation. Harvest September to October. Overwintered plants will increase in height in second year.