Celeriac
Apium graveolens var. rapaceum
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Description
Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a biennial plant cultivated for its edible, bulbous hypocotyl. It is a variety of celery grown primarily for its root rather than its stalks. In regenerative agriculture, celeriac plays a crucial role as an understory plant in food forests, contributing to soil health by improving soil structure and organic matter content. It is often included in guilds with leeks and onions, which can help deter pests. Historically, celeriac has been valued for its storage capabilities, making it a staple in winter diets. Its dense foliage provides ground cover, reducing weed growth and helping to maintain soil moisture, which is beneficial in agroecological systems.
Growing Details
Celeriac requires a long growing season and should be started indoors in late winter. Prepare soil by incorporating well-rotted compost to ensure richness and good drainage. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 30 cm apart to allow for bulb development. Mulch with straw or leaf mold to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include leeks and onions, which can help deter pests. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest when the root is about
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Apium graveolens var. rapaceum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Mediterranean Basin
applicable geo region: Temperate regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of February
Indoor Start:
beginning
of February
Transplant:
middle
of April
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Celeriac is primarily used as a root vegetable. The root can be eaten raw, grated in salads, or cooked in soups, stews, and purees. It has a mild, celery-like flavor and a starchy texture that makes it a versatile ingredient in many dishes. The leaves can also be used sparingly as a flavoring herb, similar to parsley.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Celeriac is known for its diuretic properties and can support kidney health. It is a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion, and contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, which contribute to overall health. However, due to its furanocoumarin content, it may cause photosensitivity in some individuals.
health concerns: Celeriac contains furanocoumarins, which can cause photosensitivity in some individuals. Allergic reactions may occur in people sensitive to celery.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Apium graveolens var. rapaceum
common names: Celeriac; Celery Root; Turnip-rooted Celery
family: Apiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Apium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.1 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 5ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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(6/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 2 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 0.5 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Celeriac requires a long growing season and should be started indoors in late winter. Prepare soil by incorporating well-rotted compost to ensure richness and good drainage. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 30 cm apart to allow for bulb development. Mulch with straw or leaf mold to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include leeks and onions, which can help deter pests. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest when the root is about
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include celery leaf miner, aphids, and slugs. Use natural pest management strategies such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs for aphids and nematodes for slugs. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Fungal diseases such as celery leaf spot can be managed by ensuring good air circulation and using organic fungicides like neem oil.
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