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Turnip

The turnip is a root vegetable in the mustard family, usually classified as *Brassica rapa* subsp.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The turnip is a root vegetable in the mustard family, usually classified as *Brassica rapa* subsp. *rapa*. It is grown for its fleshy taproot and edible leaves, and is cultivated in temperate regions worldwide. Turnips are eaten cooked or raw, and some varieties are also used as livestock feed.

Description

Turnip is a hardy biennial plant commonly grown as an annual for its swollen edible root. The root is usually white or partly purple, and the leaves are also edible.

Cultivation

Turnips are a fast-growing cool-weather crop that performs best in temperate conditions. They are typically harvested young because older roots can become fibrous.

Uses

Turnips are eaten raw or cooked and are used in soups, stews, roasts and other dishes. The leaves may be cooked like greens, and some turnips are grown as animal feed.

History and distribution

Turnips are among the oldest cultivated crops and have been eaten since prehistoric times. They are now grown widely across temperate regions and are associated with both European and Asian agricultural history.

Key facts

  • Turnips are cultivated for their white, fleshy taproot and tender tops.
  • The plant belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbages, broccoli and mustard.
  • Turnips are a cool-season crop and can mature in about six to eight weeks.
  • Both the roots and the leafy greens are edible.
  • Turnips have been grown and eaten for thousands of years.
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Canadian context

Turnips are a familiar cool-season vegetable in Canadian gardens and markets, especially in cooler regions where they grow well in spring and autumn.

Frequently asked questions

What is a turnip?
A turnip is a root vegetable grown for its edible swollen taproot and leafy greens.
What is the scientific name of turnip?
The common turnip is usually classified as *Brassica rapa* subsp. *rapa*.
Are turnip leaves edible?
Yes. The leaves, often called turnip greens, are edible and commonly cooked or used in salads.
How long does turnip take to grow?
Turnips are fast-growing and can mature in roughly six to eight weeks under suitable conditions.
Is turnip a biennial or annual plant?
Botanically it is a biennial, but it is often grown as an annual for harvest after one season.
What family does turnip belong to?
Turnip belongs to the mustard family, Brassicaceae.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/turnip
    Supports: Scientific classification, growth habit, origin, and general description.
  2. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions — https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/edibles/vegetables/turnips/
    Supports: History, nutrition, crop type, and Brassica family relationship.
  3. Royal Horticultural Society — https://www.rhs.org.uk/vegetables/turnips/grow-your-own
    Supports: Growth rate, edibility of roots and leaves, and harvesting guidance.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turnip
    Supports: General overview of turnip, common and alternate usage, and distinction from swede/rutabaga.
  5. NC State Extension Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/brassica-rapa-rapifera-group/
    Supports: Classification and origin in Asia.