How to Grow Purple Top Scarlet Queen
Wikimedia Commons
Purple Top Scarlet Queen
Raphanus sativus var. niger × Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
vegetablePurple Top Scarlet Queen is a dual-purpose root vegetable combining the characteristics of turnips and radishes with striking purple-topped white roots. The edible roots feature deep purple coloring on top that fades to white toward the bottom, with tender green tops suitable for cooking. This heirloom variety is prized for both its ornamental appearance and mild, slightly sweet flavor.
When should you plant Purple Top Scarlet Queen in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Purple Top Scarlet Queen timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Purple Top Scarlet Queen
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Purple Top Scarlet Queen
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Purple Top Scarlet Queen dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; tolerates cooler climates well
Sign up free to see if Purple Top Scarlet Queen grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Purple Top Scarlet Queen timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge with first true leaves appearing within 7-10 days. Soil should remain moist but well-drained.
Thin seedlings to proper spacing at 2-3 true leaves to prevent crowding. Water gently to avoid disturbing tender seedlings.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlants develop rosette of deeply lobed green leaves; roots begin swelling underground. Purple coloring starts appearing on the root shoulder at the soil surface.
Maintain consistent watering and remove weeds regularly. Side-dress with compost if growth appears slow. Ensure roots are not exposed to light (which causes greening).
Root Development
2-3 weeksRoots expand rapidly with distinct purple-top coloring intensifying. Leaves continue growing and become more abundant, suitable for harvest.
Water regularly and consistently. Apply 1-2 inches of mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep roots covered. Begin harvesting larger leaves if desired.
Maturity
1-2 weeksRoots reach 2-3 inches in diameter with fully developed purple tops. Root texture becomes firmer and flavor profile peaks. Top greens are lush and tender.
Harvest roots when 2-3 inches in diameter for best flavor and texture. Continue watering to prevent root splitting. Roots can be left in ground for extended storage in cool climates.
Extended Storage
VariableIf left unharvested, roots may become woody and pithy; top greens may bolt in warm weather.
For storage, harvest before reaching 3+ inches diameter. Store roots in cool, humid environment (32-40°F) and use within 2-3 months.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Row covers during early growth; neem oil spray; diatomaceous earth; trap crops with mustard
-
Floating row covers; soil barriers around stem base; parasitic wasps; crop rotation
-
Strong water spray; insecticidal soap; neem oil; ladybug introduction
-
Crop rotation (3-4 year minimum); lime soil to raise pH above 7.2; remove infected plants immediately
-
Yellow sticky traps; neem oil spray; reflective mulches; parasitic wasps
Uses
Roasted Root Vegetable
CulinaryThe sweet, mild roots can be roasted whole or cut into wedges, becoming tender and slightly caramelized. The mild flavor makes them suitable for both simple preparations and complex sauces. [source]
Nutritious Greens
CulinaryThe tender, slightly peppery tops are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and can be sautéed, steamed, or added raw to salads. Young leaves are more tender than older mature foliage. [source]
Raw Snack or Salad
CulinaryYoung, tender roots can be sliced thin and eaten raw with a light dressing, offering a crisp, slightly sweet texture similar to mild radishes. [source]
Ornamental Garden Crop
HouseholdThe striking purple-and-white bicolor roots and lush green foliage make Purple Top Scarlet Queen visually appealing in raised beds and vegetable gardens, adding aesthetic interest. [source]
Traditional Health Remedy
MedicinalTurnip greens have been used in traditional medicine for their glucosinolate content and antioxidant properties. Both roots and tops contain compounds with potential anti-inflammatory benefits. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest roots when 2-3 inches in diameter (typically 50-70 days after planting) for peak tenderness and flavor. Gently pull or loosen soil first to avoid breaking roots. Harvest tops as needed once plants are established, or wait until roots are mature to harvest entire plant. Spring and fall crops generally taste milder and sweeter than summer-grown roots. Store roots in cool, humid conditions (32-40°F) in sand or peat moss; they keep 2-3 months. Top greens should be used within 1-2 days of harvest.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Purple Top Scarlet Queen is an heirloom variety that dates back to the 1800s, particularly popular in Victorian-era kitchen gardens for its dual purpose—roots and nutritious tops.
- 🌱 The purple pigmentation comes from anthocyanin compounds, the same antioxidants found in blueberries and red cabbage, making this variety both nutritious and visually striking.
- 🌱 Unlike many turnip varieties, Purple Top Scarlet Queen has a relatively mild, sweet flavor when harvested young, making it appealing to those who find traditional turnips too peppery or bitter.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Purple Top Scarlet Queen planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Purple Top Scarlet Queen seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Purple Top Scarlet Queen timeline →