Shi-Li-Hong

B. rapa. The most unique mustard grown at Heritage Farm in recent years. Vigorous, early maturing plants with yellow-green leaves. Leaves obovate, broadly rounded at apex, with an enlarged midrib. Leaves more delicate than most other mustards. Largest leaves average 7.5" long and 5.5" wide. Taste is mild and sweet. Originally from a mountainous village in China. Donor Sophia Chen reports this variety has numerous adaptations to its growing environment. Other mustard seed brought to the village usually failed. The soils are heavy clay, the climate cool. This variety is cold tolerant and thrived in the clay soil. At Heritage Farm, we grew this variety in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 and was the earliest bolting mustard on the farm each of those years, whether grown in spring or fall. In its home mountain environment, it does not bolt until late summer. If grown in a warm climate, expect a vigorous planting but a short harvest window. In a cold climate, short season, and/or poor soil, this variety may thrive where others fail. Donated to SSE by Sofia Chen. Historically grown by Chen's ancestors in the village of Er-puh in Guizhou province in China. Chen received her seeds from her grandmother, Su Ching, who brought them to the U.S. when she emigrated from China in the 1940's. SSE Accession # 131395