Radish is a worldwide vegetable known for its bold flavour and crunch. But have you ever wondered how many types of radishes exist? The possibilities are nearly endless! Radishes range from spicy to mild, come in shapes like round or oblong, and vary in size from tiny to large. They come in vibrant colours like reddish-purple, rosy pink, pure white, and even green and black, which are sure to spice up your salads.
Common Types of Radishes
Let’s look at these different types of radishes to grow in your garden this season. Each one adds a unique and exciting touch to your harvest!
White Icicle
The White Icicle radish is known for its slender, smooth white skin. It is about 5 to 8 inches (13–20 cm) in length. It is known for its quick growth, as you can harvest it in just 30 days.
Sparkler
The beautiful Sparkler radish has a two-toned appearance. It’s a blend of reddish-purple and white. Its bold, spicy flavour carries a sweetness that makes it a perfect addition to any salad.
Cherry Belle
Cherry Belle radishes are one of the most common types of radishes among chefs. Their round shape, bright red skin, and crisp white flesh make them a standout. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavour.
White Beauty
White beauty is a small white radish inside and out. It has a sweet and juicy flavour and is the smallest of all types of radishes.
French Breakfast
The French breakfast looks similar to cherry belle radish but with an elongated shape and edible leafy greens. It has a crisp texture paired perfectly with a mild, peppery, and slightly sweet flavour.
Early Scarlet Gold
The Early Scarlet Globe is a favourite for many. It offers a mild, crunchy texture. Unlike other types, It thrives in warm weather, so that you can grow it in summer. Plus, it’s a frost-tolerant vegetable that is perfect for southern and northern gardeners.
Daikon Long White
Daikon long white radishes are huge in size, about 18 inches (46 cm) in length and 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. They are also known as Chinese radishes with a white, carrot-like shape and offer a mild, sweet flavour. These radishes are a staple in Asian cuisines and are enjoyed in countless dishes.
Fire and Ice
It is also known as Oblong radish, which features a vibrant red top and a pure white bottom. Its flavour and texture are sweet, mild, and delicate, making it a refreshing addition to any dish.
Unique Varieties of Radish
These radish varieties may be less common in the garden, but they’re definitely worth adding to your collection:
Sakurajima Mammoth
It is known as the largest type of radish in the world. This incredible radish can weigh up to 100 pounds when fully mature. Despite its massive size, it offers a sweet, mild flavour.
Green Meat
The Green Meat radish is a unique type of daikon known for its cylindrical shape and vibrant lime green flesh. Its skin is green near the stalk, fading to cream-coloured tips. While the outer skin delivers a surprising spice, the flesh is mild and refreshing.
Easter Egg
This intriguing variety of radishes comes in white, pink, red, or purple, offering a burst of flavour and versatility. They’re a fantastic all-round option and perfect for various cooking methods.
Watermelon
Watermelon radishes stand out as the most visually striking of all radish varieties. Their outer skin ranges from pale to vibrant green, while from the inside, it is a stunning blend of bright pink and white, resembling a watermelon. With a subtly sweet flavour and a hint of peppery zing, they add both colour and taste to any dish.
Black Spanish
Black radishes are also known as Spanish radishes. It has a bold flavour and striking visual appeal. Unlike the rosy types, these radishes pack a punch with their sharp bite.
White Hailstone
White Hailstone radishes, also known as White Globe radishes, are round and white, resembling baby turnips. They offer a wonderfully crisp texture and a juicy, mild flavour.
Chinese Green Luobo
It is also known as Qinluobo. It features a unique lime green colour both inside and out. Its flavour is mildly sweet with a subtle peppery kick that adds a tangy taste to any dish.
