Beet (Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) 'Bull's Blood')

Overview

Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ stands out in the vegetable patch not only for its edible, dark red roots but also significantly for its ornamental appeal. This heirloom Beet cultivar, developed around 1840, offers flavorful purplish-red leaves that significantly enhance salads, making it highly valued in the kitchen. Gardeners appreciate this variety because it delivers dual functionality: a tasty root vegetable and highly attractive, contrasting foliage for borders or containers.

As a member of the Garden Beet Group, this plant is typically grown as an annual, thriving best in cooler temperatures. It requires diligent attention to soil moisture and fertility to produce optimal root development. Beyond edibles, the rich, nearly black-red foliage of the Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ provides immediate, deep-toned structure in garden designs.

Successfully growing this Beet results in tender roots and vibrant greens, provided environmental conditions meet its moderate needs. Whether used in rows for bulk harvest or interspersed among flowers for aesthetic contrast, the quality and flavor profile of this specific Beet ensure its continued popularity among home gardeners.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Amaranthaceae
• Plant Type: Annual
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 2-11
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1-1.5 ft
  • Spread: 0.75-1 ft
• Bloom Time: Non-flowering
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water Needs: Medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Planting Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ should be timed for the cooler parts of the growing season. Sow seeds directly into moist, light, fertile, organically-rich, well-drained soil in early spring for a summer harvest in cooler zones (3-7), or sow seeds in summer for overwintering harvest in warmer areas (8-10). The ideal daytime temperature range for best growth is between 55-80°F, with peak flavor occurring between 55-75°F; temperatures above 80°F can cause bolting.

Consistent care is essential for developing quality globe-shaped roots, which typically measure 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter at maturity. Plants require medium, regular moisture; never allow the soil to fully dry out. When plants emerge, thin the seedlings carefully since each seed cluster contains multiple seeds, aiming for adequate spacing, especially when growing in rows spaced 18-24 inches apart. Add nitrogen fertilizers as needed to support leaf growth, but avoid over-fertilizing near harvest time.

Harvesting when the roots are small ensures they remain tender and flavorful, avoiding the fibrous texture common in older, larger beets. The leafy tops of this Beet are also entirely edible as a potherb or salad green. Store harvested beets in cool, dry locations to maximize shelf life.

Landscape Uses

The dual purpose of Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ makes it an excellent candidate for mixed plantings beyond traditional vegetable rows. The deep purplish-red foliage offers significant ornamental value, contrasting beautifully with plants featuring chartreuse, silver, or pale green leaves in cottage gardens or foundation borders. When grown in containers, its manageable size (reaching up to 2 feet tall) allows it to serve as a dynamic, edible accent plant.

Use this specific Beet variety to add drama where edibles meet ornamentals. Consider pairing the dark foliage with white or yellow flowering annuals for vivid, intentional contrast. Since the root is often the main target, planting small groups interspersed among herbs or flowers allows continuous harvesting of the flavorful leaves without decimating the overall design.

Standout Features

Noteworthy Characteristics

Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ is primarily grown for its tapestry of tasty, tuberous dark red roots, but its unique foliage sets it apart. This cultivar provides flavorful purplish-red leaves ideal for salads, and the ornamental value of the dark foliage is frequently utilized in beds, borders, and containers to create excellent visual contrast. Internally, the flesh of this specific Beet is bright red with showy pink rings, and historically, this cultivar was used to legally produce red food coloring in Sweden.

Tolerances

• No data provided

Potential Problems

While Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ generally avoids serious issues, gardeners should remain vigilant against potential diseases and pests common to Beets. Fungal problems like leaf spots, downy mildew, and powdery mildew can affect the foliage, especially in overly humid conditions or with poor air circulation. Root rots are a risk if soil drainage is inadequate or watering is excessive.

To manage leaf damage, watch closely for common beet pests such as leaf miners, flea beetles, aphids, and caterpillars, using appropriate insecticidal soap or manual removal as necessary. Nematodes may also attack the developing roots, making proper soil rotation crucial for annual growers. Ensuring the soil is well-drained and avoiding overhead watering when possible helps mitigate many common fungal concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Beet (Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’) suitable for?

This versatile Beet is suitable for a very wide range, thriving in USDA Zones 2 through 11.

How large does Beet (Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’) grow?

This cultivar typically reaches a mature height between 1 and 1.5 feet, with a spread of 0.75 to 1 foot wide.

What sun exposure does Beet (Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’) need?

Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ performs best when given full sun to part shade conditions.

When does Beet (Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’) bloom?

This plant is categorized as non-flowering when grown as an annual crop for roots and leaves.

Conclusion

The versatility of Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’—offering both delicious, deep red roots and highly decorative, edible foliage—makes it an indispensable addition to any food-focused garden space. Cultivating this specific Beet is a straightforward process, rewarding gardeners with low maintenance needs provided moisture is consistent and soil is fertile. Plan your planting schedule now based on your local USDA zone to enjoy the best harvest from your Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’.

Companion Planting

Selecting good neighbors is key to maximizing the health and productivity of your edible garden. Beets, including the ‘Bull’s Blood’ variety, benefit from being near robust brassicas or leafy greens that can tolerate similar soil profiles. Good companions often include members of the Onion family, such as garlic or chives, as their strong scents can help deter common pests like aphids.

Conversely, avoid planting Beets near pole beans or corn, as these can sometimes stunt the root development of the Beet plants. Focus on maximizing root space efficiency by pairing rows of Beta vulgaris (Garden Beet Group) ‘Bull’s Blood’ with shallow-rooted, quick-growing crops like radishes, which are harvested before the Beet roots require their full space.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring is the critical sowing period for Beets; aim to sow seeds directly into the garden soil as soon as soil conditions allow after the last frost risk subsides, especially in cooler climates. Perform necessary thinning tasks early in the season to properly space the emerging seedlings, ensuring the roots have room to bulb out without competition.

Summer months require diligent monitoring of moisture, as dehydration leads to bolting or poor root quality. If summer heat is persistent, provide light afternoon shade if possible, and ensure plants receive consistent medium watering. During autumn, continue harvesting roots as they reach size; in warmer zones, sowing a late summer crop ensures a winter harvest.