Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris
root beet
This is the original plant from which our cultivated beet plants have been selected. It has deep green, fleshy leaves which are edible, as in leaf beet and colourful stems making it extremely ornamental as a foliage plant, as in chard. In some, the root has become swollen like beetroot, sugar beet and fodder beets like mangleworzel. Flowers are inconspicuous pale green granules, produced in vast numbers
Synonyms
Beta rubra hort.Beta hortensis hort.
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Red Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Red Pink | Green | Green | |
| Autumn | Green Red Pink | Green | ||
| Winter | Green Red Pink | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Beta can be annual, biennial or perennial plants, often with rosettes of basal leaves and thick, fleshy roots. The genus includes a range of wild species, as well as cultivated food crops such as beetroot, chard and sugar beet
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in good light. Will grow well in coastal locations. For more advice, see beetroot cultivation
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to grey moulds and downy mildews
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.