SafePlants

Beet (Beta vulgaris)

Beets, also known as table beet, garden beet, red beet, or golden beet, are a popular root vegetable enjoyed worldwide. The beetroot is the taproot portion of the beet plant. They are cultivated for both their edible taproots and their leaves, which are called beet greens.

Considerations for Pets

• Beet leaves have a bitter taste.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Beta vulgaris
• Common Names: Beet, Table Beet, Garden Beet, Red Beet, Golden Beet
• Belongs to the amaranth family.
• The beets belong to the same family as chard and spinach.

Distribution and Habitat

• An Old World crop known to the Romans.
• Table beet is a popular garden vegetable throughout the United States.

Morphological Characteristics

• The beetroot is the taproot portion of the beet plant.
• Cultivated for their edible taproots and leaves (beet greens).
• Beet leaves have a bitter taste.

Quirky Facts

• Beets aren't just red; other types of beetroot exist, including 'Chioggia' and golden beets.

Nutritional Information

• Beets are an excellent source of folate and a very good source of manganese, potassium, and copper.
• They are also a good source of dietary fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin C, iron, and vitamin B6.
• Beets contain a unique phyto-chemical compound glycine betaine.

Health Benefits

• Glycine betaine present in beets helps lower toxic homocysteine levels.
• Drinking beet juice may help to lower blood pressure.
• Health benefits are said to include aid for anemia, digestion, constipation, piles, blood circulation, kidney disorders, skin care, dandruff, gall bladder disorders, and cancer.

Culinary Uses

• The taproots and leaves (beet greens) are edible.
• Beets can be used in appetizers, salads, sides, and even desserts.
• Beets can be cooked in a variety of ways.

External Resources

• British Sugar Beet Portal (www.uksugarbeet.co.uk)
• MusicBrainz tagger http://beets.io/