Rat's Tail is an unusual heirloom radish grown not for its root but for its long, edible seed pods. Botanically classified within the podding radish group, it produces slender green to purplish pods several inches long on tall, branching plants during warm weather. The pods are crunchy and pleasantly pungent, eaten raw in salads, stir-fried, or pickled, and they keep producing as long as they are picked young. Because it thrives in heat that would ruin ordinary radishes, Rat's Tail extends the radish harvest deep into summer. It is a productive, heat-loving novelty long grown in Asian gardens and increasingly popular among adventurous permaculture growers seeking a hot-weather radish crop.
Flavor Profile
Crisp and mildly peppery pods with a fresh radish bite; tender and best when picked young before they toughen.
Visual Characteristics
Tall branching plants bearing slender green to purple-tinged seed pods several inches long instead of edible roots.
Growing Tips
Thrives in summer heat; keep pods picked young to encourage continuous production over a long season.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.