Broccoli ‘Lieutenant’ (Brassica oleracea var. italica)

Broccoli ‘Lieutenant’ (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a hybrid broccoli variety known for its uniform central heads and strong side shoot production after the main harvest. This variety produces dense, medium to large green heads with good structure and consistent quality, making it suitable for fresh eating, cooking, and freezing.

Lieutenant broccoli is valued for its ability to continue producing smaller side shoots after the main head is harvested, extending the harvest window. It performs best in cool growing conditions and is well-suited to Alberta’s spring and fall seasons. Consistent moisture and fertile soil are important for optimal head formation and preventing stress-related issues such as bolting.

In Lethbridge, broccoli is grown as a cool-season annual crop and benefits from early planting or late summer sowing for fall harvest.