Cultivated Radish

(Raphanus sativus)

Cultivated Radish (Raphanus sativus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Raphanus sativus, commonly known as Cultivated Radish, is an annual or biennial herb first domesticated in Southeast Asia. It has been cultivated for its edible root for thousands of years. Radishes are grown for their swollen tap roots, which vary in shape from globular to tapering or cylindrical. The skin color of the root can range from white to pink, red, purple, yellow, green, and even black, while the flesh is typically white. When harvested at the right time, the flesh is crisp and sweet, but it can become bitter and tough if left in the ground too long. Radishes produce white flowers on a racemose inflorescence, and the fruits are small pods that are also edible when young.

Radishes are valued for their quick growth cycle and are a cool-season crop. They germinate rapidly in moist conditions with soil temperatures between 18 and 29 °C (65 and 85 °F). Optimal root quality is achieved with moderate day lengths and air temperatures ranging from 10 to 18 °C (50 to 65 °F). The crop matures in 3–4 weeks under average conditions, but may require 6–7 weeks in colder weather. They thrive in full sun in light, sandy loams with a soil pH of 6.5 to 7.0. For late-season crops, a clayey-loam is preferred. Soils that form a hard crust when dry are not suitable as they can impair germination. To extend the harvesting period, gardeners can make repeat plantings spaced a week or two apart. In warmer climates, radishes are typically planted in the autumn. They are a common garden crop worldwide, and their fast harvest cycle makes them particularly suitable for children’s gardens. While generally easy to grow, radishes can become invasive outside their native range, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 0.267-0.8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Originally native to Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Garden Radish, Gartenrettich, Radis, Radis Cultivé, Radijs, Tuinradijs, Rädisa/Rättika, 무, Radish, Wild Radish, 蘿蔔

Scientific Names: , Raphanus sativus, Raphanus sativus var. niger, Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus, Raphanus caudatus, Raphanus candidus, Raphanus sativus f. raphanistroides, Raphanus sativus var. raphanistroides, Raphanus sativus var. radicula, Raphanus sativus var. hortensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Raphanus sativus L.