How to Grow Rapini Apollo
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Rapini Apollo
Brassica rapa subsp. italica
vegetableRapini Apollo is a fast-maturing Italian broccoli rabe variety prized for its tender shoots, leaves, and small florets. This cool-season brassica is known for its slightly bitter, nutty flavor and exceptional productivity. It's a versatile vegetable that thrives in spring and fall gardens.
When should you plant Rapini Apollo in your zone?
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Example Rapini Apollo timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Rapini Apollo
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Rapini Apollo
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Rapini Apollo dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers cooler temperatures (60-70°F)
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTrue leaves emerge 7-10 days after sowing; plants develop 2-3 sets of leaves
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide good light and airflow to prevent damping off. Thin seedlings to proper spacing early.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and leaves, forming a bushy plant with deep green foliage
Maintain consistent moisture and apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep soil cool.
Head Formation
1-2 weeksCentral head forms with small florets clustered at the top, accompanied by side shoots with leaves
Increase nitrogen feeding to support head development. Monitor for pests and diseases. Ensure consistent watering.
Harvest-Ready
1-2 weeksMain central head reaches 3-5 inches in length with tight florets; side shoots begin to develop below main head
Check plants daily once heads form. Harvest promptly to encourage side shoot production. Keep plants cool with shade cloth if temperatures exceed 75°F.
Secondary Harvest
2-4 weeksMultiple side shoots with smaller heads and tender leaves develop after main head is harvested
Continue watering and light fertilizing. Harvest side shoots regularly to promote further branching and extend harvest season.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers, Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), hand-picking. Use yellow sticky traps to monitor adults.
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Row covers over young plants, insecticidal soap, neem oil. Keep plants well-watered to reduce stress.
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Strong water spray, insecticidal soap, neem oil, or reflective mulch. Encourage beneficial insects.
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Hand-pick eggs and adults, use row covers, plant trap crops, remove plant debris.
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Row covers, collars around stems, crop rotation, parasitic nematodes in soil.
Uses
Sautéed greens and florets
CulinaryRapini Apollo's tender shoots and small florets are delicious sautéed with garlic and olive oil. The slightly bitter flavor pairs well with pasta, grains, and roasted meats. [source]
Raw salads and appetizers
CulinaryYoung, tender leaves and florets can be eaten raw in salads or served as crudités. The mild bitterness adds complexity to mixed greens. [source]
Glucosinolate-rich crucifer
MedicinalLike all brassicas, rapini contains glucosinolates that may support detoxification and have anti-inflammatory properties. Cooking reduces these compounds. [source]
Nutritional powerhouse
MedicinalHigh in vitamins A, C, K, folate, and minerals including iron and calcium. Supports bone health, immune function, and antioxidant protection. [source]
Spring and fall succession cropping
HouseholdApollo's short 45-60 day maturity makes it ideal for multiple plantings throughout the season to ensure continuous harvest and fresh supply. [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 the central head when it reaches 3-5 inches tall, before florets begin to flower and open. Cut with a sharp knife 1-2 inches below the head. Harvest in the morning when plants are crisp. Regular harvesting encourages prolific side shoot production for 2-4 additional weeks. Side shoots can be harvested with 2-3 leaves attached for maximum tenderness.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Rapini Apollo is a relatively new cultivar developed for early maturity and exceptional side shoot production, making it more prolific than traditional rapini varieties.
- 🌱 The name 'broccoli rabe' comes from the Italian 'rapa,' meaning turnip, because it was traditionally grown as a turnip crop before the emphasis shifted to the florets and shoots.
- 🌱 Rapini is one of the oldest cultivated brassicas, dating back to ancient Roman times, and remains a staple in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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