Broccoli is a brassica, which is the cabbage and mustard family of crops. Native to the Northern and Eastern Mediterranean, “wild cabbage” was domesticated and bred agriculturally more than two thousand years ago. Preference for various traits and the breeding of wild cabbage led to the emergence of not only broccoli, but also cabbage, cauliflower, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts and kale as well. A diet rich in brassicas, also known as cruciferous vegetables, has been linked to reduced risk of several cancers.
Facts about Michigan Broccoli
- Broccoli is a cool season crop, most often planted in spring or fall in Michigan.
- Broccoli is a good source of folate and vitamins C and K.
- Broccoli is harvested by hand since no mechanical harvester is available.
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