- Botanical Name & Family: Beta vulgaris, Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae) .
- Plant Description: Herbaceous biennial, typically cultivated as an annual for its thick, fleshy taproot (dark purplish-red, sometimes white/orange). Leaves are oblong with red petioles, also edible. Produces minute green flowers in the second year.
- Cultivation Tips: Cool-season crop, thrives in spring and fall (8-10 weeks growing season). Sow 4-5 weeks before last spring frost (soil temp > 7°C). Prefers moist, fertile, light to sandy, well-drained soils (pH > 6.0). Requires consistent moisture. Thin seedlings to 5-7.5 cm apart. Harvest 7-8 weeks after planting.
- Ayurvedic Description: Balances all three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Considered grounding and soothing. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Promotes digestive health (fiber), cleanses liver, aids immunity, and fights inflammation. Nitrates convert to nitric oxide, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
Beetroot | Beta vulgaris | 35 / 58 | 8 / 13 | 1 / 2.2 | 0 / 0.2 | 2 / 3.8 | C (4 mg), Riboflavin, Folate, A, K | K (6 mg), Na (64 mg), Fe (4 mg), Ca, Mn |