Apium graveolens var. rapaceum
Family: Apiaceae
Common Name: Celery Root, Knob Celery, Root Celery, Turnip-rooted Celery

This celery relative is grown as an annual under cultivation for its thickened, turnip-like, edible root. Used in salads, soups and stews, it can also be boiled and served mashed with oxtail, lamb chops or braised beef. A popular vegetable in Europe, it is known to have been cultivated by the ancient Egyptians.

Cultivation

Celeriac is grown in the same way as celery, in soil heavily enriched with aged manure or compost. Sow in cell trays or ordinary seed trays in early spring under glass. Germinate at 15°C (59°F). Plant out when frost is over, 30 cm (12 in) apart each way. Celeriac needs a long growing season. Harvest in autumn and protect from hardest frost with straw.

Climate

Zone 8, but grown as a seasonal crop.