18 Best Cruciferous Vegetables You Can Grow

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

Cruciferous vegetables, 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.

While these veggies may look different, they offer similar health benefits. They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals like folate and vitamin K. Dark green cruciferous vegetables, in particular, provide vitamins A and C, along with phytonutrients. These natural compounds can help fight inflammation and lower the risk of cancer.

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

Botanical Name: Eruca vesicaria

Arugula, a leafy green with a peppery taste is a top pick for salads, is rich in nitrates and polyphenols. Growing it in your garden is simple: Just plant the seeds in well-draining soil, give plenty of sunlight and you’ll have fresh leaves in a few weeks!

Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. italica

Broccoli is a powerhouse of vitamins C, K, and A, fiber, and folate. To grow it, plant seeds or seedlings in fertile soil and provide consistent watering. Broccoli does best in cooler weather, so avoid excessive sunlight exposure for tender leaves.

Botanical Name: Armoracia rusticana

Horseradish is a cruciferous vegetable, which is an excellent source of antioxidants that shield cells from damage. For best growth, make sure it gets plenty of bright and indirect light all day long.

Botanical Name: Brassica rapa subsp.