Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla var. flavescens
Swiss chard
The group of all the cultivated beets, selected for their large fleshy leaves and brightly coloured stems. These can produce an edible crop all year round and are known for their better resistance to bolting (running to flower and seed) than spinach
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 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 | Red Pink Gold | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red Pink Gold | Green | Green | |
| Autumn | Red Pink Gold | Green | ||
| Winter | Red Pink Gold | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Native to the UK
- 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. For more details, follow chard cultivation.
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Diseases
May be susceptible to grey moulds and downy mildews
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