How to Grow Typhon
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Typhon
Brassica oleracea var. italica × Brassica oleracea var. acephala
vegetableTyphon is a hybrid brassica that combines broccoli rabe and kale characteristics, producing tender leafy greens with small florets along the stems. It's a cool-season crop that thrives in spring and fall gardens, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor similar to broccoli rabe. The plant is prized for its nutritional density and long harvesting season.
When should you plant Typhon in your zone?
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Example Typhon timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Typhon
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 Typhon
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Typhon dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8; grows well in cooler climates with mild winters
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Get my Typhon timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall true leaves emerge after cotyledons; plant is tender and vulnerable
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bright light or grow lights; thin seedlings to proper spacing when 2-3 true leaves appear
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops compound leaves and strong root system; compact bushy growth habit with no visible florets yet
Maintain consistent watering and fertility; apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; monitor for pest damage
Floret Formation
2-3 weeksSmall broccoli-like florets begin forming along leaf axils and at stem tips; plant becomes fuller
Increase nitrogen slightly to support floret development; ensure adequate water; side-dress with compost
Harvest Ready
4-6 weeks or longerFlorets swell and leaves mature to full size; stems become tender and flavorful; plant reaches 12-18 inches tall
Begin selective harvesting of outer leaves and florets; encourage continued production by removing spent portions
Extended Harvest/Decline
Variable, 4-8 weeksPlant continues producing side shoots and new leaves; production slows as temperatures rise or cool-season ends
Continue harvesting to promote branching; remove any yellowing leaves; provide extra water in heat; may bolt in summer heat
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers on young plants; Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray; hand-pick caterpillars; beneficial wasps
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Bt spray; row covers; hand-pick larvae; encourage parasitic wasps
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Row covers on seedlings; kaolin clay spray; neem oil; diatomaceous earth
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Strong water spray to dislodge; neem oil; insecticidal soap; encourage ladybugs and lacewings
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Row covers; Bt spray; hand-pick caterpillars; floating row covers until flowering
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Yellow sticky traps; neem oil; insecticidal soap; reflective mulch
Uses
Sautéed greens and florets
CulinaryYoung leaves and tender florets are delicious sautéed with garlic and olive oil, or steamed as a side dish. The mild flavor is less bitter than kale and less peppery than broccoli rabe, making it appealing to a wider audience. [source]
Raw salads
CulinaryVery young, tender Typhon leaves can be used raw in mixed green salads, adding a subtle broccoli-like flavor and tender texture. [source]
Cancer-fighting compounds
MedicinalLike other brassicas, Typhon is rich in glucosinolates and sulforaphane, compounds studied for their potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Pasta and grain dishes
CulinaryChopped Typhon florets and leaves work well in pasta, risotto, grain bowls, and soups, adding nutritional value and a mild broccoli-like flavor. [source]
Nutritional supplement
HouseholdHigh in vitamins K, C, and A, plus iron and calcium, making Typhon an excellent addition to a nutrient-dense diet and ideal for juicing or smoothies. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting 50-70 days after transplanting when florets are tight and leaves are tender. Harvest outer leaves and florets from bottom up, leaving the growing center intact. Pick in the morning when plants are crisp. Typhon produces side shoots like broccoli rabe, so harvesting promotes further production over 4-8 weeks. Cut floret clusters with 2-3 inches of stem attached. Continue harvesting until plants bolt or temperatures become unsuitable.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Typhon is a relatively new hybrid combining the best traits of Italian broccoli rabe and nutrient-dense kale, making it a 21st-century vegetable that's becoming increasingly popular among home gardeners.
- 🌱 Unlike most brassicas that produce a single head, Typhon continuously produces side shoots along the main stem when leaves and florets are harvested, allowing for extended harvests over several weeks.
- 🌱 The name 'Typhon' may reference Greek mythology and the plant's vigorous, powerful growing habit; it's also known as 'Broccolini di Cicilia' in some regions, though it's distinct from standard broccolini.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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