Pak choi
Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis
Chinensis
About this plant
Pak choi, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a leafy green vegetable with crisp white stalks and dark green leaves. It is popular in Asian cooking and grows quickly. It is nutritious and can be eaten raw or cooked.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Brassica
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Brassicales
- Plant type
- Annual
- Lifespan
- Annual
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- China, East Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide, especially in Asia, North America, and Europe.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 2–5 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-22 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, fertile soil
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently in hot weather to prevent stress.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to support leafy growth. Organic compost or well-rotted manure also works well.
Pak choi is a hardy leafy vegetable that grows quickly and is easy to care for. It prefers cool weather and can bolt (flower and go to seed) if it gets too hot. Regular watering and fertile soil help it grow well, with minimal maintenance needed.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Crisp white stalks with dark green, spoon-shaped leaves; small yellow flowers when flowering.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic and safe to eat; no known toxicity to humans or pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Some people sensitive to pollen or plant sap might experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions when handling this plant. To reduce exposure, wear gloves when harvesting or cutting and wash hands afterward.
Common problems
If overwatered, the roots may rot; if temperatures get too high, the plant may bolt early, producing flowers and seeds instead of leaves. Pests like aphids or flea beetles can sometimes be a problem.
Uses
Grown mainly as a leafy vegetable for cooking in stir-fries, soups, and salads. It is nutritious and rich in vitamins.
Notes
Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Avoid letting the plant bolt by keeping it cool and well-watered. Suitable for container growing as well as garden beds.