Cabbage

Brassica oleracea

1. Identification and origin

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) is a horticultural species of the family Brassicaceae, native to the coastal regions of southern and western Europe. It comprises several varietal groups, including:

• heart cabbage [Brassica oleracea L. Convar. capitata (L.) Alef., Capitata Group]
• head cabbage [Brassica oleracea L. Convar. capitata (L.) Alef., Capitata Group]
• cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L., Botrytis Group)
• broccoli (Brassica oleracea L., Italica Group)
• Galician kale (Brassica oleracea L., Acephala Group)
• Portuguese cabbage (Brassica oleracea L., Costata Group)
• Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea L., Gemmifera Group)

It is one of the most important vegetables worldwide, in both intensive and traditional systems.

2. Economic importance

Cabbage has high economic and social relevance, being consumed fresh, cooked or processed. It is a fundamental crop in open-field and greenhouse horticulture, with a strong presence in local markets and distribution chains. Some varietal groups have great industrial value (e.g.: cauliflower and broccoli). The species is also important in rotation, contributing to soil structuring.

3. Botanical characterization

A biennial plant grown as an annual. The leaves vary widely according to the varietal group, and may be smooth, curly, broad or compacted into a head. The flowers are yellow, typical of the Brassicaceae, gathered in clusters. The fruits are siliques containing spherical seeds. The root system is taprooted, with superficial lateral branching.

4. Soil and climate requirements

It prefers cool temperate climates, with optimal temperatures between 15–20 °C. It tolerates moderate cold, but is sensitive to excessive heat, especially in cauliflower and broccoli. It develops best in deep, fertile, well-drained soils, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It requires good water availability, avoiding waterlogging.

5. Main pests

• Cabbage root fly (Delia radicum): root damage and reduced vigour.
• Flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.): leaf perforations in seedlings.
• Diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella): defoliation and damage to inflorescences.
• Pieris spp. caterpillars: intense defoliation.
• Aphids (Aphididae): leaf curling and transmission of viral diseases.
• Nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.): root galls and plant decline.

6. Main diseases

• Clubroot (also known regionally as potra) (Plasmodiophora brassicae): root deformations and decline.
• Downy mildew (Hyaloperonospora brassicae): chlorotic spots and necrosis.
• Alternaria leaf spot (Alternaria brassicae, A. brassicicola): leaf spots and seed losses.
• Crown and root rots (Fusarium spp., Rhizoctonia spp., Phytophthora spp.): wilting and plant death.
• Leaf spot caused by Xanthomonas spp.: angular lesions and commercial devaluation.
• White rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum): wilting and crown rot.

7. General crop management

Management includes the choice of adapted varieties, planting at the appropriate time, balanced fertilization and controlled irrigation. Crop rotation is essential to reduce the pressure of soil-borne diseases, especially Plasmodiophora brassicae.
Monitoring of flea beetles, diamondback moth and aphids is critical in the early stages. Harvesting must be carried out at the optimal point of development, avoiding mechanical damage.

Bibliographic references

• EPPO Global Database – Brassica oleracea.
• CABI Crop Compendium – Brassica oleracea.
• Rimmer, S. R., Shattuck, V. I., & Buchwaldt, L. (2007). Compendium of Brassica Diseases. APS Press.
• Dixon, G. R. (2007). Vegetable Brassicas and Related Crucifers. CABI Publishing.
• FAO (2013). Brassica oleracea L. – Crop information and production guidelines. FAO Plant Production and Protection Division.