Beta vulgaris 'Shiraz' (Beets)

'Shiraz' is a deep-colored, round beet with a reputation for sweeter, milder flavor compared to many standard red varieties, notably lower in the bitterness-causing oxalic acid that puts some people off beets. The roots are a rich, dark red-purple with a uniformly globular shape and grow to about 7 to 8 centimeters across. The beet tops grow tall, reaching 25 to 30 centimeters, and are fully edible as greens with a mild, pleasant flavor of their own.

Beets are straightforward cool-season crops that do well direct-sown in the Pacific Northwest from early spring through late summer. They prefer loose, well-worked soil where the roots can expand without obstruction, and consistent moisture for steady, even growth. Thin seedlings to 3 to 4 inches apart after germination to allow roots to size up properly. 'Shiraz' can be harvested at any stage, from baby beets at golf ball size to full mature roots, making it flexible for the kitchen.

This variety works well roasted, where the sweetness concentrates beautifully, and holds up to pickling and canning for storage.