Cauliflower, Snowball

Cauliflower, Snowball
(Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)

Snowball Cauliflower is a classic heirloom variety known for its smooth, compact white heads and reliable cool-season performance. Producing dense, snow-white curds with mild flavor and tender texture, this variety has long been a favorite in home gardens. Snowball performs best in the cool temperatures of spring and fall and is well suited for fresh cooking or preservation.

Key Characteristics

• Smooth, Dense White Heads
  Snowball produces uniform, tightly packed curds with a clean white color. Heads are typically medium-sized and form compact domes protected by surrounding leaves.
• Mild, Delicate Flavor
  The tender curds have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Excellent for roasting, steaming, soups, stir-fries, and traditional cauliflower dishes.
• Classic Cool-Season Crop
  Performs best in the moderate temperatures of spring and fall. Consistent moisture and fertile soil support strong head formation.
• Reliable Heirloom Variety
  A long-standing garden favorite known for dependable production and quality heads when grown in cool weather conditions.

Product Details

• Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. botrytis
• Native Range: Mediterranean (cultivated worldwide)
• Plant Life Cycle: Annual
• Sun Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Medium to medium-wet, fertile, well-drained
• Mature Height: 1.5–2 feet
• Bloom Time: April–May (second year if overwintered)
• Bloom Color: Yellow
• Days to Maturity: ~70–80 days
• USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as an annual in zones 3–10

Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting or direct sow in cool soil. Maintain fertile soil and steady moisture to support head development. When curds begin to form, leaves can be tied loosely over the head to maintain its white color (a process known as blanching). In permaculture systems, rotate cauliflower with legumes or soil-building crops to maintain fertility.

Snowball Cauliflower offers classic flavor, tender texture, and dependable cool-season harvests—an excellent heirloom for productive vegetable gardens