Bok Choy

Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis

Brassicaceae · vegetables · China

EdibleLow Maintenance

About Bok Choy

A mild, crisp Asian green with white stalks and dark green leaves. Quick to grow — baby bok choy is ready in just 30 days. Essential in stir-fries, soups, and Asian cuisines.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun

Full Sun to Part Shade

💧💧

Water

Medium

🌱

Soil

Rich, Moist

📈

Growth Rate

Fast

🌸

Bloom Season

Spring, Fall

🌈

Bloom Color

Yellow (if bolted)

Size & Dimensions

1' 6"

Height

Spread

Hardiness Zone Range

Suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 11

Plant Details

Family	Brassicaceae
Category	Vegetables
Native Region	China
Scientific Name	Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis

Care Tips

✓Cool season crop — bolts quickly in heat.
✓Succession sow for continuous harvest.
✓Baby bok choy is ready in 30 days.
✓Part shade extends harvest in warm weather.

Fun Facts

★One of the oldest cultivated vegetables in China — grown for over 6,000 years.
★Contains more calcium per calorie than milk.
★The name means 'white vegetable' in Cantonese.

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Data verified: 2026-04

USDA Plants Database Missouri Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Bok Choy grow in?

Bok Choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11. This means it can tolerate winter temperatures typical of these zones. Check your local zone to ensure it is suitable for your area.

How much sun and water does Bok Choy need?

Bok Choy requires full sun to part shade and has medium water needs. It grows best in rich, moist soil. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods.

How tall and wide does Bok Choy grow?

Bok Choy typically reaches 1' 6" tall with a spread of 1'. It has a fast growth rate and requires low maintenance. Plan your garden spacing accordingly to give it room to reach its full size.

Is Bok Choy deer resistant?

Bok Choy is not typically considered deer resistant. If deer are common in your area, consider protecting young plants with fencing or using deer repellent sprays during the growing season.

When does Bok Choy bloom and is it edible?

Bok Choy blooms in spring, fall, producing yellow (if bolted) flowers. Parts of this plant are edible and can be used in cooking or eaten fresh. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is native to China.

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