Red Giant Mustard Seeds

Days to Maturity: 20 to 40

At last, a mustard green so showy it just may do for this nutritious family what Bright Lights did for Swiss chard—put it in every garden and on every table of gardeners who love bold colors and fresh flavor in their veggies. Red Giant is a brilliant maroon with deep green midribs, so showy you may just have to plant two crops—one in the veggie patch and one along the walkway or in your annual border.

These leaves are slightly textured for a better bite and good holding power. The flavor is zesty and full, with a good bite that you just can't find in store-bought mustard greens. Imagine Red Giant flanking your pansies and cheery mums in the fall garden, or nestling beside bold ornamental cabbage and kale. Or put it in bright containers for an unforgettable patio or porch display.

Because you pick this mustard leaf by leaf for eating (instead of uprooting the entire plant, as you do for head lettuce), you can enjoy the fine display of color for many weeks. Frost just improves the flavor and color.

Sow seed outdoors in early spring or, for fall crops, 6 to 8 weeks before first fall frost. Space seedlings 1 to 2 inches apart in rows 15 inches apart.