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I have tried growing Raab Broccoli this year and must admit it is pretty pathetic. The plants have produced tiny spikes that flower immediately. Anyone had any better success with this plant?

No better for me. Exactly the same in fact. I tried it a couple of years ago and wont be trying again.

Tried it 2 years ago and similarly was dissappointed .I think its our expectations that dissappoint.Also its not helped by the "broccoli" label . Its more a mustard for stir-fry.
See:http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/broccoli-rabe/broccoli-rabe.htm
The seed I have is Franchi Cima di rapa Noventina.
For our northern climate, it suggests sowing May-July, suggesting harvest August-October. I think I shall try once more, with the remaining seed, planting soon.Will report, possibly in around 8 weeks

Same here George. Won't be trying that again!

Thanks for the info and thanks ancellsfarmer for the link. I see the problem now. Very misleading calling it "broccoli" - better to use the term "mustard". It also looks that the main thing eaten is the leaves rather than the stalks - not something one would expect to do with broccoli! I will dig them out and plant something more useful. I might grow some at home in the garden just for the leaves later in the year as it looks like we should treat it as a cool weather plant like turnips.
Reminds me of all the disparate plants called "asparagus" which bear no resembles to the taste of that noble plant.