Tatsoi seed buying and growing guide

Grow Tatsoi Asian Greens

Tatsoi is a compact Asian leafy vegetable grown for its glossy dark-green leaves, tender pale stems and mild spinach-like flavour. Mature plants form low, attractive rosettes, while densely sown crops can be harvested earlier as microgreens or baby leaf.

Seedmart supplies tatsoi seeds for home gardens, raised beds, containers, market gardens, restaurants and commercial leafy-green production throughout Australia. Tatsoi belongs to the species Brassica rapa and is closely related to pak choi, bok choy, mizuna, Chinese cabbage and turnip.

Grow tatsoi through cool to mild conditions for the best leaf texture and compact rosette formation. Harvest baby leaves from approximately three weeks, remove outside leaves progressively or cut mature plants whole for salads, stir-fries, soups, steaming and Asian-style meals.

Why Grow Tatsoi?

Fast-Growing Asian Green

Baby leaves can be harvested from approximately 21 days, with mature rosettes following several weeks later.

Glossy Spoon-Shaped Leaves

Tatsoi produces neat dark-green foliage with pale stems and an attractive compact growth habit.

Cool-Season Hardiness

Established plants tolerate cold conditions and light frost better than many tender salad vegetables.

Repeated Leaf Harvests

Pick mature outside leaves while leaving the central crown to continue producing new growth.

Suitable for Containers

Compact plants grow well in pots, troughs, raised planters and small urban gardens.

Microgreen to Mature Plant

Use the same untreated seed for microgreens, baby leaf or full-sized rosette production.

What Is Tatsoi?

Tatsoi is a non-heading Asian brassica that forms a low rosette of smooth, rounded or spoon-shaped leaves. The leaves are deep green and glossy, while the stems are pale green to white and remain tender when harvested young.

It is sometimes described as rosette pak choi because of its close relationship to pak choi and its flattened circular growth habit.

Tatsoi plants generally produce:

Glossy Dark-Green Leaves

Smooth rounded foliage develops around the central growing point in an attractive rosette.

Tender Pale Stems

The leaf stalks remain fine and succulent compared with the broad stems of many pak choi varieties.

A Compact Rosette

Mature plants spread close to the ground rather than forming an upright cabbage head.

Yellow Brassica Flowers

Plants allowed to bolt produce elongated stems carrying small yellow flowers and later seed pods.

Tatsoi is an Asian brassica rather than true spinach. Its mild flavour and tender leaves allow it to be used similarly to spinach, but it belongs to the cabbage and mustard family.

Other Names for Tatsoi

Tatsoi is grown across East and Southeast Asia and may be sold under several common names.

These include:

  • Tatsoi
  • Tat choy
  • Rosette pak choi
  • Rosette bok choy
  • Chinese flat cabbage
  • Spinach mustard
  • Spoon mustard
  • Tai cai
  • Tai koo choi
  • Wu ta cai

Common names vary between regions and suppliers. The botanical crop name is *Brassica rapa*, commonly classified as var. *narinosa*.

Is Tatsoi a Brassica?

Yes. Tatsoi belongs to the brassica or cabbage family, Brassicaceae.

It is related to:

  • Pak choi and bok choy
  • Mizuna
  • Chinese cabbage
  • Turnip
  • Komatsuna
  • Mustard greens
  • Broccoli
  • Kale and cabbage

Because it is a brassica, tatsoi can attract similar pests, including cabbage white butterfly caterpillars, cabbage moth larvae, flea beetles and aphids.

What Does Tatsoi Look Like?

Mature tatsoi develops a low, circular rosette approximately 15–20 cm high and often wider than it is tall.

Its identifying features include:

Spoon-Shaped Leaves

The leaf blade is rounded towards the tip and narrows into a tender stem.

Deep Glossy Colour

Healthy mature foliage is generally dark green with a smooth reflective surface.

Pale Leaf Stalks

Fine green-white stems radiate from the centre of the plant.

Flattened Growth

Cool-grown mature plants frequently sit close to the soil in a neat rosette.

Baby-leaf crops are harvested before this full rosette develops, while microgreens are cut at the seedling stage.

What Does Tatsoi Taste Like?

Tatsoi has a mild leafy flavour combining characteristics of spinach, pak choi and gentle mustard greens.

Microgreens

Fresh and Mildly Mustardy

Young shoots have crisp stems and a light brassica flavour suited to salads and garnishes.

Baby Leaf

Tender and Spinach-Like

Small true leaves are mild enough for raw salads and mixed-leaf packs.

Mature Leaves

Earthy and Savoury

Larger leaves develop a fuller green flavour while remaining milder than strong mustard greens.

Pale Stems

Crisp and Juicy

The fine leaf stalks add texture to stir-fries, soups and steamed dishes.

Cool-Grown

Mild and Sweet

Steady cool-season growth generally produces the best balance of tenderness and sweetness.

Heat-Stressed

Stronger and More Mustardy

Warm weather and bolting can increase flavour strength and reduce tenderness.

Tatsoi vs Pak Choi

Tatsoi and pak choi are closely related Asian brassicas but differ in plant shape and stem size.

Tatsoi Pak Choi
Forms a low, spreading rosette. Generally develops a more upright vase-shaped plant.
Produces small spoon-shaped leaves. Produces larger oval or rounded leaves.
Has fine, tender pale-green stems. Often develops broad white or green leaf stalks.
Particularly useful for baby leaf and salad mixes. Commonly harvested as whole plants for stir-frying and steaming.
Generally remains relatively compact. Plant size varies from miniature to large full-sized varieties.
Has a mild spinach and mustard flavour. Has a mild cabbage-like flavour with succulent stems.

Tatsoi vs Bok Choy

Pak choi and bok choy are commonly used as interchangeable names, although naming conventions vary between suppliers and regions.

Tatsoi differs primarily through its flattened rosette, smaller rounded leaves and finer stems.

Tatsoi is sometimes called rosette bok choy. It is closely related to bok choy but should be treated as a distinct crop type when planning plant spacing, harvest stage and presentation.

Tatsoi vs Spinach

Tatsoi and English spinach can serve similar culinary purposes, but they belong to different plant families.

Tatsoi English Spinach
Botanical group: Brassica rapa. Botanical name: Spinacia oleracea.
Belongs to the cabbage and mustard family. Belongs to the Amaranthaceae family.
Produces spoon-shaped glossy leaves and fine pale stems. Produces broader leaves in smooth or savoy forms.
Has mild mustard and pak choi notes. Has an earthy spinach flavour without mustard character.
Can tolerate light frost once established. Also performs well through cool conditions.
Useful raw, stir-fried, steamed or added to soups. Used raw when young and cooked when mature.

Tatsoi vs Mizuna

Tatsoi and mizuna are both fast-growing Japanese-style Asian greens, but their foliage and flavour differ.

Tatsoi Mizuna
Rounded, spoon-shaped leaves. Long, narrow and deeply divided leaves.
Forms a compact flattened rosette. Forms a loose upright cluster.
Mild spinach and mustard flavour. Peppery but relatively mild mustard flavour.
Provides broad leaf texture in salad mixes. Adds feathery texture and volume to salad mixes.
Fine pale stems remain succulent. Slender stems and divided leaves provide a lighter texture.

Can Tatsoi Be Eaten Raw?

Yes. Tatsoi can be eaten raw, particularly as microgreens, baby leaf or small tender mature leaves.

Raw tatsoi can be used in:

  • Green salads
  • Asian salad mixes
  • Sandwiches and wraps
  • Rice and noodle bowls
  • Fresh garnishes
  • Slaws
  • Microgreen blends
  • Baby-leaf mixes

Mature leaves and stems remain edible raw but may be firmer and more strongly flavoured than baby foliage.

How to Grow Tatsoi in Australia

Tatsoi is a fast-growing cool-season crop requiring fertile free-draining soil, consistent moisture and full sun to partial shade.

Choose Cool Conditions

Plant through autumn, winter or mild spring weather for compact growth and tender leaves.

Sow Directly or Transplant

Tatsoi establishes readily from direct sowing but can also be raised in cells for controlled planting.

Maintain Even Moisture

Regular watering supports succulent stems and reduces stress-related bolting.

Harvest at the Required Stage

Grow dense crops for baby leaf or allow wider-spaced plants to form complete rosettes.

Tatsoi grows best without severe heat. Warm conditions can cause rapid flowering, stronger flavour and reduced rosette quality.

When to Plant Tatsoi in Australia

Tatsoi is generally sown through cool to mild conditions. The ideal planting window differs between tropical northern Australia and cool southern districts.

Climate Zone General Sowing Period Growing Notes
Cool September to March Sow from spring through early autumn and use protection during severe frost.
Temperate September to March Autumn and spring generally provide the best balance of rapid growth and mild flavour.
Subtropical April to August Grow through autumn and winter to avoid heat-related bolting.
Tropical May to July Use the coolest dry-season period and provide afternoon shade where required.
Arid March to May and August to October Avoid extreme heat and maintain consistent moisture with mulch and irrigation.

These sowing periods are general guides. Local frost, elevation, heat, humidity and irrigation availability should also be considered.

When to Plant Tatsoi in Australian States and Cities

Location General Planting Guide Key Considerations
Brisbane and South East Queensland April to August Autumn and winter generally provide the best conditions for compact rosettes and tender foliage.
Sydney and coastal New South Wales February to October Plant through autumn, winter and spring while avoiding the hottest summer period.
Inland New South Wales February to May and August to October Protect young plants during severe frost and maintain irrigation in dry weather.
Melbourne and Victoria September to April Cool conditions support a long planting window, with autumn and spring particularly suitable.
Canberra and cool inland districts September to April Tatsoi tolerates cold once established, but very small seedlings may need frost protection.
Adelaide and South Australia March to September Maintain consistent moisture through dry autumn and spring weather.
Perth and south-west Western Australia March to September Autumn and winter generally provide mild temperatures and seasonal rainfall.
Tasmania September to April The cool climate suits tatsoi, but current Seedmart product restrictions prevent shipment to Tasmania.
Darwin and tropical northern Australia May to July Grow during the coolest dry-season window with irrigation and light afternoon shade.

How to Grow Tatsoi from Seed

Tatsoi can be direct-sown into garden beds and containers or raised in seedling cells before transplanting.

  1. Choose the planting period.
    Plan the crop for cool to mild growing conditions.
  2. Prepare fertile soil.
    Use free-draining ground enriched with suitable compost or organic matter.
  3. Sow shallowly.
    Plant seed approximately 5 mm deep and cover lightly.
  4. Water gently.
    Use a fine spray so the seed remains evenly positioned.
  5. Maintain moisture.
    Keep the soil moist without leaving it waterlogged.
  6. Thin or transplant seedlings.
    Adjust spacing according to baby-leaf or mature-rosette production.
  7. Monitor brassica pests.
    Inspect leaves regularly for caterpillars, flea beetles and aphids.
  8. Harvest at the preferred stage.
    Cut microgreens, baby leaves, individual outer foliage or complete mature plants.
Successive sowing extends supply. Plant smaller batches every two to three weeks rather than allowing the entire crop to mature at once.

How Deep Should Tatsoi Seeds Be Planted?

Plant tatsoi seeds approximately 5 mm deep and cover them lightly with fine soil or seed-raising mix.

Direct Sowing

Sow into the final garden bed, raised planter or container.

  • Plant approximately 5 mm deep
  • Cover lightly
  • Water with a fine spray
  • Thin after establishment

Seedling Cells

Raise individual plants where controlled spacing is required.

  • Use clean seed-raising mix
  • Maintain consistent moisture
  • Provide bright light after emergence
  • Transplant before plants become root-bound

How Long Do Tatsoi Seeds Take to Germinate?

Tatsoi commonly germinates within approximately 5–7 days under suitable conditions.

Soil Temperature

A broad soil-temperature range of approximately 7–25°C can support germination, with mild conditions generally providing the most uniform emergence.

Moisture

Keep the shallow seedbed evenly moist without continually saturating it.

Sowing Depth

Deeply planted seed may emerge slowly or fail to reach the surface.

Seedling Light

Provide bright light immediately after emergence for compact growth.

Can Tatsoi Seedlings Be Transplanted?

Yes. Tatsoi seedlings transplant readily while young.

When transplanting:

  • Wait until several true leaves have formed
  • Harden seedlings gradually
  • Keep the root ball intact
  • Plant at approximately the previous depth
  • Water immediately
  • Protect from severe heat or drying wind

Direct sowing is often simpler for dense baby-leaf crops, while transplanting is useful for evenly spaced mature rosettes.

How Far Apart Should Tatsoi Be Planted?

Spacing depends on the intended harvest stage.

Harvest Goal Approximate Spacing General Result
Microgreens Dense tray sowing Seedlings harvested shortly after the cotyledons and first true leaves develop.
Baby leaf Approximately 2–5 cm or densely sown rows High plant population for early cutting and mixed-leaf production.
Small whole plants Approximately 10–15 cm Compact young rosettes suited to salad packs and quick cooking.
Mature rosettes Approximately 15–20 cm Allows leaves to spread into a complete circular plant.
Row spacing Approximately 20–30 cm Provides access for weeding, pest inspection and harvest.

How Tall Does Tatsoi Grow?

Mature tatsoi generally grows approximately 15–20 cm high, although the rosette can spread considerably wider.

Plant size is affected by:

  • Spacing
  • Temperature
  • Soil fertility
  • Water availability
  • Light
  • Harvest stage

Once tatsoi begins flowering, its central stems extend above the low rosette.

Can Tatsoi Be Grown in Pots?

Yes. Tatsoi grows particularly well in containers because of its compact size and relatively shallow root system.

Container Requirements

Choose a broad pot, trough or window box.

  • Allow approximately 15–20 cm of soil depth
  • Provide unrestricted drainage holes
  • Use fertile, moisture-retentive potting mix
  • Space according to harvest size

Container Management

Containers may dry rapidly during warm or windy weather.

  • Check moisture regularly
  • Position in sun or bright partial shade
  • Thin crowded seedlings
  • Move pots into afternoon shade during heat

Does Tatsoi Need Full Sun?

Tatsoi grows in full sun to partial shade.

Full sun encourages compact growth during cool weather. Partial shade can help extend production as temperatures rise.

Heavy shade can result in:

  • Loose elongated growth
  • Pale foliage
  • Slow development
  • Reduced harvest weight
  • Longer periods of wet leaves

Morning sun with light afternoon shade is useful in subtropical and warm temperate regions.

Watering and Feeding Tatsoi

Tatsoi requires consistent moisture for tender leaves and succulent stems.

Water deeply enough to keep the shallow root zone moist without creating stagnant conditions.

Tatsoi generally benefits from:

  • Fertile soil containing suitable organic matter
  • Balanced nutrition during active leaf growth
  • Regular watering during dry weather
  • Mulch around widely spaced mature plants
  • Good drainage during prolonged rainfall
Moisture stress encourages tougher leaves and early bolting. Maintain steady growth for the best baby-leaf and mature-rosette quality.

How Long Does Tatsoi Take to Grow?

Harvest timing depends on whether tatsoi is grown as microgreens, baby leaf or mature rosettes.

Harvest Stage Typical Period General Characteristics
Microgreens Approximately 8–12 days Fine green shoots with mild brassica flavour.
Baby leaf Approximately 21–30 days Tender developed leaves for salads and mixed-leaf packs.
Small whole plants Approximately 30–40 days Compact young rosettes suitable for complete harvest.
Mature rosettes Approximately 45–50 days Full-sized plants with glossy leaves and tender stems.
Flowers and seed Longer than the vegetable harvest period Plants elongate, flower and form mature seed pods.

Growing time varies with temperature, sunlight, plant density, moisture and preferred harvest size.

When to Harvest Tatsoi

Tatsoi can be harvested whenever the leaves reach the desired size.

Harvest baby leaves while they remain tender, or allow widely spaced plants to form complete mature rosettes.

Signs of harvest readiness include:

  • Leaves have reached the required size
  • Foliage is glossy and dark green
  • Stems remain crisp and tender
  • The central crown is healthy
  • Plants have not begun elongating to flower
  • Leaves show minimal pest damage

How to Harvest Tatsoi

Tatsoi can be harvested in several ways.

Harvest Method How It Works Best Suited To
Microgreen cutting Cut young seedlings immediately above the growing medium. Garnishes, salad blends and commercial microgreen production.
Baby-leaf cutting Cut developed young leaves above the central crown. Mixed-leaf salads and dense plantings.
Outer-leaf picking Remove the largest outside leaves while retaining the growing centre. Extended household and market-garden harvesting.
Complete rosette harvest Cut the whole plant at or immediately above soil level. Fresh-market packs, stir-fries and whole-plant presentation.

Harvest during the cooler part of the day where practical and cool the foliage promptly.

Is Tatsoi Cut-and-Come-Again?

Yes. Tatsoi can regrow when leaves are harvested without damaging the central growing point.

For repeated harvesting:

  • Remove outside leaves first
  • Leave the central crown intact
  • Cut baby leaf above the growing point
  • Maintain moisture after harvest
  • Remove damaged foliage
  • Replace plants once flowering begins

Complete rosette harvesting generally removes the plant and does not provide substantial regrowth.

Can Tatsoi Be Grown as Baby Leaf?

Yes. Tatsoi is particularly well suited to baby-leaf production.

Baby-leaf crops are sown more densely and harvested before full rosettes form.

For baby leaf:

  • Prepare a fine, clean seedbed
  • Sow evenly at a relatively high density
  • Maintain consistent moisture
  • Protect foliage from caterpillars and flea beetles
  • Harvest from approximately 21 days
  • Cool and handle leaves carefully after cutting

Can Tatsoi Be Grown as Microgreens?

Yes. Seedmart’s current Tatsoi Vegetable Seed is untreated and suitable for microgreen production.

Tatsoi microgreens generally require:

  • No seed presoaking
  • A clean soil, coir, hemp or suitable hydroponic medium
  • Even seed distribution
  • Moisture during germination
  • A short weighted or stacked germination period
  • Bright light after emergence
  • Good airflow
  • Harvest at approximately 8–12 days
Microgreens and baby leaf are separate products. Microgreens are harvested as young seedlings, while baby leaf develops for longer and has recognisable true leaves.

How to Prepare Tatsoi

Tatsoi can collect soil around its low rosette, particularly where mature plants spread close to the ground.

  1. Inspect the foliage.
    Remove yellow, damaged or heavily chewed leaves.
  2. Separate leaves if required.
    Open mature rosettes so soil around the base becomes visible.
  3. Wash gently.
    Rinse the leaves and stems in clean cool water.
  4. Repeat where necessary.
    Garden-grown rosettes may require more than one rinse.
  5. Drain thoroughly.
    Remove excess moisture before frying or dressing.
  6. Keep small leaves whole.
    Baby leaves and young rosettes generally require little cutting.
  7. Separate large stems if necessary.
    Begin cooking firmer stems before adding delicate leaf blades.

How to Cook Tatsoi

Tatsoi cooks quickly and should generally be added near the end of a recipe.

Stir-Fried

Quick-Cooked Tatsoi

Cook leaves and stems briefly with garlic, ginger, chilli, sesame or soy-based sauces.

Steamed

Tender Whole Rosettes

Steam young plants or mature leaves lightly until the stems soften.

Soups

Fresh Asian Green

Add tatsoi during the final minutes of cooking to retain colour and texture.

Salads

Raw Baby Leaves

Use small leaves fresh with light dressings, herbs, noodles or other Asian greens.

Noodle Dishes

Wilted Leafy Vegetable

Fold the leaves through hot noodles, broth or rice immediately before serving.

Kimchi and Pickles

Small Brassica Leaves

Use sound young plants in suitable vegetable fermentation or quick-pickle recipes.

How Long Should Tatsoi Be Cooked?

Cooking time depends on leaf maturity and the chosen method.

Cooking Method General Cooking Period Suitable Material
Stir-frying Approximately 2–5 minutes Baby leaves, mature leaves and fine stems.
Steaming Approximately 3–6 minutes Young plants or mature rosettes.
Soup or broth Add during the final 2–5 minutes Leaves and tender stems.
Brief blanching Approximately 30–90 seconds Leaves intended for salads, sauces or further cooking.
Braising Approximately 5–10 minutes Larger mature leaves and stems.

Cooking periods are general guides. Tatsoi wilts quickly and generally requires less cooking than thick-stemmed pak choi.

Ways to Use Tatsoi

Tatsoi can be used wherever a recipe calls for tender Asian greens, baby spinach or mild mustard leaves.

Potential uses include:

  • Fresh green salads
  • Stir-fries
  • Noodle soups
  • Ramen and broth bowls
  • Steamed vegetable plates
  • Rice dishes
  • Sandwiches and wraps
  • Green smoothies
  • Kimchi-style preparations
  • Microgreen and garnish mixes

Can Tatsoi Be Frozen?

Yes. Tatsoi can be frozen for later cooked use, although thawed leaves will not retain their fresh salad texture.

For freezing:

  1. Select sound foliage.
    Remove yellow or damaged leaves.
  2. Wash thoroughly.
    Remove soil from the stems and rosette base.
  3. Blanch briefly.
    Use a short heat treatment to preserve colour and storage quality.
  4. Cool rapidly.
    Transfer the leaves into cold water.
  5. Drain well.
    Remove excess moisture.
  6. Freeze in portions.
    Pack into suitable freezer-safe containers.

Frozen tatsoi is best used in soups, stir-fries, curries, sauces and cooked fillings.

How to Store Fresh Tatsoi

Fresh tatsoi should be cooled promptly and protected from dehydration.

For household storage:

  • Remove damaged leaves
  • Keep rosettes or leaves refrigerated
  • Protect foliage from crushing
  • Control excess moisture and condensation
  • Use a suitable produce bag or container
  • Wash shortly before use where practical
  • Discard slimy, mouldy or unpleasant-smelling leaves

Complete rosettes may store better than heavily cut or bruised foliage.

Does Tatsoi Bolt?

Yes. Tatsoi can produce elongated flowering stems when temperatures rise, plants mature or growth becomes stressed.

Bolting can be encouraged by:

Warm Weather

High temperatures can quickly shorten the harvest period.

Plant Maturity

Older rosettes naturally progress towards flowering and seed production.

Moisture Stress

Repeated drying can accelerate flowering and strengthen flavour.

Root Restriction

Crowded seedlings and small containers can interrupt vegetative growth.

Leaves and young flower stems remain edible during early bolting, but marketable rosette quality declines.

Are Tatsoi Flowers Edible?

Yes. The small yellow flowers and tender young flowering stems of untreated edible tatsoi plants can be eaten.

They have a mild brassica or mustard flavour and may be used in:

  • Salads
  • Garnishes
  • Stir-fries
  • Soups
  • Vegetable flower mixes

Only use flowers from plants that have not been treated with unsuitable garden chemicals.

Does Tatsoi Self-Seed?

Tatsoi can self-seed where flower stems are allowed to produce and release mature seed.

To prevent unwanted seedlings:

  • Harvest plants before flowering
  • Remove flower stems before seed matures
  • Clear mature crop residues
  • Monitor the bed during later cool seasons

To encourage natural reseeding, allow selected healthy plants to flower and dry. Seedlings may not remain completely true to type where compatible brassicas cross-pollinate.

Is Tatsoi Annual or Perennial?

Tatsoi is generally grown as a cool-season annual or short-lived biennial brassica.

It produces edible leaves, then flowers and sets seed when triggered by maturity and seasonal conditions.

Continued supply is best maintained through successive sowing rather than relying on old plants to remain permanently productive.

Common Tatsoi Growing Problems

Poor Germination

Deep sowing, dry seedbeds, waterlogging and unsuitable temperatures can reduce emergence.

Small Holes in Leaves

Flea beetles commonly damage young brassica seedlings.

Large Chewed Areas

Cabbage moth and cabbage white butterfly caterpillars can remove substantial foliage.

Early Bolting

Heat, drought, crowding and plant maturity can trigger flowering.

Yellow Leaves

Old foliage, waterlogging, drought, root stress or poor nutrition can cause yellowing.

Loose Upright Rosettes

Warm conditions, low light and close spacing can prevent compact growth.

How to Protect Tatsoi from Caterpillars and Flea Beetles

Tatsoi can attract the same chewing pests as other brassicas.

Management options include:

  • Covering young plants with fine insect netting
  • Checking the undersides of leaves for eggs
  • Removing visible caterpillars
  • Keeping weeds and crop residues controlled
  • Maintaining adequate spacing and airflow
  • Rotating brassica crops
  • Removing severely damaged foliage
  • Using only legally registered crop-protection products according to their labels

Install insect netting before adult pests lay eggs and secure the edges carefully.

What to Plant with Tatsoi

Tatsoi can share cool-season gardens with crops that have compatible water and light requirements.

Potential neighbouring crops include:

  • Mizuna
  • Pak choi
  • Lettuce
  • Spinach
  • Rocket
  • Radish
  • Spring onions
  • Carrots
  • Beetroot
  • Peas with separate support

Allow sufficient space so larger neighbouring crops do not completely shade mature tatsoi rosettes.

Can Tatsoi Seed Be Saved?

Yes. Seedmart’s current tatsoi is open pollinated and can produce seed where plants are allowed to flower and mature.

To save seed:

  1. Select healthy plants.
    Retain vigorous plants with desirable rosette form, colour and flavour.
  2. Allow flowering.
    Plants develop tall stems bearing yellow brassica flowers.
  3. Permit seed pods to mature.
    Wait until pods begin drying and turning brown.
  4. Harvest before excessive shattering.
    Cut stems as mature pods begin releasing seed.
  5. Finish drying under cover.
    Place stems in a dry, ventilated location.
  6. Separate and clean the seed.
    Remove pod fragments and other debris.
  7. Store in cool, dry conditions.
    Label the seed with the variety and harvest year.

Will Tatsoi Cross with Pak Choi or Mizuna?

Yes. Tatsoi can cross with compatible forms of Brassica rapa, including pak choi, mizuna, Chinese cabbage, turnip and some mustard vegetables when they flower together.

Crossing does not affect the leaves being harvested from the current crop. It changes the genetic characteristics of seed produced by those plants.

Growers saving tatsoi true to type should isolate flowering plants from compatible Brassica rapa crops or use controlled pollination.

Packet and Larger-Quantity Tatsoi Seeds

Home and Small-Scale Growers

Smaller quantities suit household gardens, raised beds, pots and growers trialling tatsoi for the first time.

  • Grow microgreens, baby leaf or mature plants
  • Harvest progressively through cool weather
  • Use in salads and cooked Asian dishes
  • Make successive seasonal sowings

Market Gardens and Commercial Growers

Larger quantities can support scheduled microgreen, baby-leaf and whole-rosette production.

  • Suitable for repeated cool-season sowings
  • Useful for Asian vegetable and restaurant markets
  • Can be harvested at several growth stages
  • Compare plant density, leaf yield and harvest labour
Compare value by saleable leaf production. Germination, plant density, harvest stage, caterpillar damage, trimming labour, regrowth and usable foliage all influence the actual production cost.

Important Considerations for Commercial Growers

Commercial tatsoi production requires a defined harvest stage, consistent crop density and effective brassica-pest management.

Harvest Format

Microgreens, baby leaf, small rosettes and mature whole plants require different sowing densities and schedules.

Rosette Uniformity

Even spacing and cool conditions support consistent shape, colour and market presentation.

Bolting Risk

Warm weather can rapidly reduce the harvest window and mature-plant quality.

Pest Exclusion

Caterpillar and flea-beetle damage can substantially reduce marketable leaf yield.

Cleaning Labour

Low-growing rosettes can collect soil around their bases and require careful washing.

Post-Harvest Cooling

Leaves and rosettes should be cooled promptly and protected from wilting and crushing.

Conduct local production trials before large sowings. Germination, growth habit, bolting, pest pressure, shelf quality and saleable yield can vary with season, planting density, irrigation and soil.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tatsoi?

Tatsoi is a compact Asian brassica producing glossy dark-green spoon-shaped leaves in a low rosette.

What is tatsoi greens?

Tatsoi greens are the edible leaves and tender stems of the tatsoi plant, used raw or lightly cooked.

Is tatsoi a brassica?

Yes. Tatsoi belongs to the cabbage and mustard family and is closely related to pak choi, mizuna and Chinese cabbage.

What does tatsoi look like?

Mature tatsoi forms a compact flattened rosette of glossy spoon-shaped green leaves with fine pale stems.

What does tatsoi taste like?

Tatsoi has a mild flavour combining spinach, pak choi and gentle mustard notes.

Is tatsoi the same as pak choi?

No. They are closely related, but tatsoi forms a low rosette with smaller leaves and finer stems.

Is tatsoi the same as spinach?

No. Tatsoi is a brassica, while true spinach is Spinacia oleracea. They can be used similarly in many dishes.

Can tatsoi be eaten raw?

Yes. Microgreens, baby leaves and tender mature leaves can be used raw in salads, sandwiches, wraps and garnishes.

How do you eat tatsoi?

Eat young leaves raw or cook tatsoi briefly by stir-frying, steaming, blanching or adding it to soups and noodle dishes.

How do you grow tatsoi from seed?

Sow approximately 5 mm deep in fertile moist soil, thin or transplant the seedlings and grow them through cool to mild conditions.

When should tatsoi be planted in Australia?

Tatsoi is generally planted through autumn, winter and mild spring. Cool-climate growers can also sow through much of spring and early autumn.

When should tatsoi be planted in Brisbane?

Around Brisbane, tatsoi is generally best sown from April to August.

When should tatsoi be planted in Melbourne?

Around Melbourne, tatsoi can generally be sown from September through April.

How deep should tatsoi seeds be planted?

Plant tatsoi seeds approximately 5 mm deep and cover them lightly.

How long do tatsoi seeds take to germinate?

Tatsoi commonly germinates within approximately 5–7 days under suitable conditions.

Can tatsoi seedlings be transplanted?

Yes. Transplant young seedlings after several true leaves develop and keep the root ball intact.

How far apart should tatsoi be planted?

Mature rosettes are generally spaced approximately 15–20 cm apart. Baby-leaf crops can be grown much more densely.

How tall does tatsoi grow?

Mature tatsoi generally grows approximately 15–20 cm high and spreads into a broad rosette.

Can tatsoi be grown in pots?

Yes. Tatsoi grows well in pots, troughs, window boxes and raised planters.

Does tatsoi need full sun?

Tatsoi grows in full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade is useful during warmer weather.

How long does tatsoi take to grow?

Baby leaf can be ready from approximately 21 days, while mature rosettes generally require around 45–50 days.

When should tatsoi be harvested?

Harvest whenever leaves reach the preferred size and before plants begin elongating to flower.

How do you harvest tatsoi?

Pick outside leaves, cut baby leaf above the crown or harvest the complete mature rosette near soil level.

Is tatsoi cut-and-come-again?

Yes. Tatsoi can regrow where the central crown remains intact after harvesting.

Can tatsoi be grown as baby leaf?

Yes. Sow densely and harvest the developed young leaves from approximately 21 days.

Can tatsoi be grown as microgreens?

Yes. Untreated tatsoi seed can produce microgreens ready in approximately 8–12 days.

How do you prepare tatsoi?

Remove damaged leaves, separate mature rosettes and rinse thoroughly to remove soil around the stems and base.

How do you cook tatsoi?

Stir-fry, steam, blanch or add tatsoi to soups and noodle dishes during the final few minutes of cooking.

What can tatsoi be used for?

Use tatsoi in salads, stir-fries, soups, noodle bowls, rice dishes, wraps, kimchi-style preparations and garnishes.

Can tatsoi be frozen?

Yes. Blanch and freeze tatsoi for later cooked use, although thawed leaves will not retain their fresh texture.

How should fresh tatsoi be stored?

Refrigerate tatsoi promptly in a suitable produce bag or container and protect the leaves from crushing and excess moisture.

Does tatsoi tolerate frost?

Established tatsoi tolerates light frost, although severe frost can damage small seedlings and exposed leaves.

Does tatsoi bolt?

Yes. Warm weather, maturity, drought and root stress can cause tatsoi to produce flowering stems.

Are tatsoi flowers edible?

Yes. Tender yellow flowers and young flowering stems from untreated plants have a mild brassica flavour.

Does tatsoi self-seed?

Yes. Plants allowed to produce mature seed pods can generate volunteer seedlings during later suitable conditions.

Is tatsoi annual or perennial?

Tatsoi is generally grown as a cool-season annual or short-lived biennial brassica.

Why is my tatsoi flowering?

Warm temperatures, plant maturity, moisture stress and root restriction can trigger bolting.

Why are there holes in my tatsoi leaves?

Flea beetles, cabbage moth caterpillars, cabbage white butterfly larvae, slugs and snails can damage tatsoi foliage.

Why are my tatsoi leaves turning yellow?

Possible causes include old foliage, waterlogging, drought, nutrient stress, root damage or disease.

What can be planted with tatsoi?

Tatsoi can share beds with mizuna, pak choi, lettuce, spinach, rocket, radish, spring onions, carrots and beetroot.

Can tatsoi seed be saved?

Yes. Allow healthy open-pollinated plants to flower and produce fully mature dry seed pods.

Will tatsoi cross with pak choi or mizuna?

Yes. Compatible Brassica rapa crops can cross when flowering together, affecting the characteristics of saved seed.

Is Seedmart tatsoi seed chemically treated?

The current Tatsoi Vegetable Seed product is identified as having no chemical treatment. Check the product specifications before each order because seed lots can change.

Is Seedmart tatsoi open pollinated?

Yes. The current product is identified as open pollinated and non-GMO.

How many tatsoi seeds are in one gram?

The current product specification lists approximately 400 seeds per gram.

Can Seedmart tatsoi seed be shipped to Tasmania?

The current product page states that this seed is not shipped to Tasmania because of quarantine restrictions.

Tatsoi seeds for Australian growers

Grow Tatsoi in Packet or Larger Quantities

Seedmart supplies tatsoi seed for household gardens, raised beds, containers, market gardens, restaurants and commercial leafy-green production. Grow this compact Asian Brassica rapa crop for fast microgreens, tender baby leaves and glossy mature rosettes suited to fresh salads, stir-fries, soups and Asian-style dishes.

Review the product page for current pack sizes, seed treatment, specifications, quarantine restrictions and ordering information before purchasing.