Main Categories of Vegetables

Botanical Classification (Scientific Groups)

1. Cruciferous Vegetables (Brassicaceae)

Key characteristics: Sulfur compounds, cancer-fighting glucosinolates

• Broccoli

• Cauliflower

• Kale

• Brussels sprouts

• Bok choy

• Kohlrabi
  Transition: Beyond these sulfur-rich varieties, nightshades offer distinct nutritional profiles…

2. Nightshades (Solanaceae)

Notable trait: Contain alkaloids like solanine

• Tomatoes

• Eggplants

• Bell peppers

• Chili peppers

• Potatoes
  Transition: While nightshades thrive in warm climates, root vegetables adapt to diverse environments…

3. Umbellifers (Apiaceae)

Identification: Hollow stems, umbrella-shaped flowers

• Carrots

• Celery

• Parsnips

• Fennel

• Celeriac
  Transition: Contrasting these taproot specialists, cucurbits dominate vertical growing spaces…

4. Cucurbits (Cucurbitaceae)

Growth habit: Fast-growing vines with tendrils

• Cucumbers

• Zucchini

• Pumpkins

• Winter squash

• Bitter melon
  Transition: Meanwhile, alliums form the aromatic foundation of global cuisines…

5. Alliums (Amaryllidaceae)

Signature feature: Sulfur-based volatile compounds

• Onions

• Garlic

• Leeks

• Shallots

• Chives

Culinary Classification (Usage-Based)

Leafy Greens

Nutrition highlight: High in vitamin K and folate

• Spinach

• Swiss chard

• Arugula

• Collard greens

• Watercress

Podded Vegetables

Harvest tip: Pick before seeds harden

• Green beans

• Snow peas

• Okra

• Fava beans

• Winged beans

Stem Vegetables

Preparation note: Often require peeling

• Asparagus

• Rhubarb

• Cardoon

• Bamboo shoots

• Kohlrabi

Flower Vegetables

Culinary use: Delicate textures, mild flavors

• Artichokes

• Broccoli florets

• Cauliflower

• Banana blossoms

• Squash blossoms

Specialized Categories

Sea Vegetables

Sustainability factor: Require no freshwater

• Nori

• Dulse

• Wakame

• Kombu

• Sea beans

Heirloom Varieties

Preservation value: Genetic diversity conservation

• Cherokee Purple tomatoes

• Dragon carrots

• Moon and Stars watermelon

• Glass Gem corn

• Romanesco broccoli

Why Classification Matters

1. Crop Rotation: Prevents soil depletion (e.g., rotate nightshades with legumes)

2. Pest Management: Group-specific controls (e.g., cabbage moths target crucifers)

3. Nutrition Planning: Color-based phytonutrient profiles (USDA FoodData Central)

Pro Tip: Combine categories for balanced diets – pair iron-rich leafy greens with vitamin C-packed nightshades to enhance absorption.

To view matching products, please click on the Trelfey store.