Stem base elongated, not fleshy, cylindric. Basal and lower cauline leaves green, few to several, widely spaced, not grouped into a head. Axillary leafy buds not forming heads. Inflorescence white, compact, often globose, with fleshy peduncle, rachis, pedicels, and flowers. Flowers yellow. 2n = 18*.

Cultivated as a vegetable. Throughout China [widely cultivated elsewhere].