Weird calabrese

[Icyberjunkie]

Why are my calabrese growing like this?   The first picture shows the developing florette, the second the point when I gave in and cut it.   Others have formed a normal green head but more like purple sprouting in shape rather than the nice compact things I see in the supermarket.  The ground was very well manured and they have been watered although not copiously or regularly - variety is Autumn Spear.  Thanks Iain

[Icyberjunkie]

[Mrs Ava]

Dunno, my caulis do that!  Shall look forward to the answer.  ;D

[john_miller]

The plant in the picture entered a vegetative growth phase after the buds had been initiated. Various factors can cause this including, and given the climate the U.K. has been 'enjoying' this year it may be the most important, excessive heat after bud set. An erratic watering regime may have contributed too as will excess N released by high levels of manure- this plant could be on a hot spot. The second picture is the plant after it has re-entered reproductive growth and the stems are simply elongating prior to flowering.
Googling "bracting in cauliflower" may provide additional information as it is a well researched disorder.

[tim]

Looks more like Romanesco than calabrese.

[Icyberjunkie]

Thanks for that John,  I'll go have a look.   As for the Romanesco Tim,  i have no idea!!  The seed packet does state "Broccoli Sprouting (Calabrese) - Autumn King;  they are from Suttons Seeds.

Iain