Brassica rapa 'Green Jewel' (Mini Pak Choi)

Green Jewel mini pak choi is a compact, fast-maturing Asian green that earns serious affection from gardeners who try it once. The petite heads grow just 4 to 5 inches tall, forming neat, symmetrical rosettes with thick, juicy pearlescent stalks and bright, glossy green leaves. The flavor is delicately sweet and crunchy, with none of the bitterness that sometimes appears in larger brassicas. From transplant to harvest in just over a month.

In the kitchen, mini pak choi is incredibly versatile. Cut the heads in half lengthwise and sear them cut-side down in a hot pan until caramelized, then finish with soy sauce and sesame oil for a side dish that looks restaurant-quality. They are equally at home raw in slaws, sliced into broth-based soups at the last minute, or added whole to a stir-fry.

Green Jewel excels in the cool, damp growing conditions of the Oregon coast, and its small size makes it an excellent choice for raised beds, containers, and any garden where space is at a premium.