What is mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica), what is it good for and how do you grow it at home?
Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica) is a Japanese leafy salad green, often called “Japanese mustard greens”. It is easy to recognise by its feathery green leaves and a mild yet slightly peppery flavour reminiscent of a blend of rocket and mild mustard.
It has been part of Asian cuisine for centuries thanks to its nutritional value – it is rich in vitamins A, C and K, folic acid and minerals such as calcium, iron and magnesium. As well as being tasty, mizuna has an anti-inflammatory effect, strengthens the immune system and supports bone health.
Quick facts
- Germination time: 5–10 days
- Germination temperature: 10–20 °C
- Time to harvest: 30–40 days
- Primary use: fresh salads, stir-fries, soups, smoothies
- Vitamins/minerals: A, C, K, folic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium
- Effect on people: strengthens the immune system, supports bone and eye health, has an anti-inflammatory effect
Growing mizuna at home
Mizuna is an extremely rewarding plant to grow – it grows quickly, tolerates cooler conditions and can be grown all year round. In the garden or on the balcony it thrives in both spring and autumn, while indoors (or in smart gardens) it can be grown throughout the year.
In smart gardens such as SIMPLY and AURELIA, mizuna gets optimal conditions – automatic watering and proper lighting provide a constant supply of fresh leaves, with no worry or stress.
Planting mizuna from seed
- Sow the seeds in a loose growing medium or use smart soils with seeds.
- It germinates quickly (5–10 days), so you see progress very soon.
- Once it sprouts, thin out the plants and harvest the outer leaves regularly.
- Growing in the SIMPLY and AURELIA smart gardens simplifies the process – no transplanting or extra fertilisers needed.
Growing in the Simply and Aurelia smart gardens
Our smart gardens let mizuna grow in ideal conditions – always fresh, crisp and ready to harvest. Grown this way, users can enjoy nutrient-rich leaves and keep an exotic Japanese plant close at hand, all year round.
How to harvest and use mizuna
- Pick the outer leaves while the centre keeps growing.
- It can be harvested as early as 3–4 weeks after sowing.
- It is best used fresh in salads, but it also handles cooking well (stir-fries, soups).
Common problems and solutions
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
| Bitter taste | Temperatures too high | Grow in cooler months or indoors |
| Holes in the leaves | Slugs or caterpillars | Protect the plants with netting or use natural repellents |
| Weak growth | Lack of nutrients | Add organic fertiliser or use smart soils |
| Yellow leaves | Too little light | Move to a sunny spot or use an LED grow light |
| Premature flowering | Heat stress | Keep the temperature stable and harvest the leaves regularly |
The difference between mizuna and other salad greens
- Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica): feathery leaves, mild peppery flavour, fast growing.
- Rocket (Eruca sativa): stronger peppery flavour, smaller leaves.
- Classic lettuces (Lactuca sativa): milder flavour, softer leaves.
How to store mizuna
- In the fridge: keep in a plastic or paper bag for 3–5 days.
- Freezing: not recommended, as it loses its texture.
- Best used fresh: straight after harvest for the best flavour and nutrition.
Conclusion
Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica) is an exotic, nutrient-rich and easy-to-grow salad green that brings variety to your diet. It delivers a mild, peppery flavour and is packed with vitamins and minerals. With the SIMPLY and AURELIA smart gardens, you can grow mizuna all year round – always fresh, crisp and ready for your plate.
