Manglewurzels take chelsea by storm: a root vegetable revolution
Forget perfectly formed tomatoes and symmetrical carrots. This year, the Great Pavilion at the chelsea Flower Show is set to be dominated by a startling shade of red – and a surprisingly viral vegetable.
The manglewurzel's unexpected rise
For decades, the mangelwurzel – a humble, often overlooked root vegetable traditionally used as cattle feed – has languished in obscurity. But thanks to a few dedicated gardeners and a savvy social media campaign, this oddly shaped, almost ‘mandrake-esque’ specimen is now the hottest ticket in horticultural circles.
Kate Cotterill and Lucy Hutchings, of She Grows Veg, are behind the impressive display. They’ve cultivated a gigantic, vibrant red variety that's captured the imagination of young gardeners across the country, triggering a full-blown Instagram craze. “What we find is that when veg is really different, people get really excited about it,” Cotterill explained. “Usually they have been growing the same thing year on year so it’s exciting when it’s new.”
Beyond the symmetry: a celebration of heritage
The pair are showcasing a range of unusual heritage vegetables – black tomatoes, purple cauliflowers, and strikingly coloured radishes – alongside the mangelwurzel. They're deliberately moving away from the traditional emphasis on perfect presentation, focusing instead on showcasing the beauty and diversity of forgotten varieties. “It’s about getting the younger generation interested in growing their own food,” Hutchings stated. “And let’s be honest, a giant, bright red mangelwurzel is undeniably eye-catching.”
The vegetable’s popularity has been undeniable; a recent Instagram reel garnered over 2.8 million views and 58,000 likes. Many allotment holders are fiercely competitive, vying for the best harvest and bragging rights. The mangelwurzel’s distinctive appearance – reminiscent of a Harry Potter mandrake – has even led to wins in vegetable growing competitions.
More than just feed: a culinary revelation
Traditionally viewed as a peasant crop, relegated to supplying livestock during times of scarcity, the mangelwurzel is now being recognized for its versatility. Cotterill describes it as “delicious mashed, roasted or pickled” – a sweeter, less earthy alternative to beetroot. And surprisingly, its greens are perfectly edible, making for “fantastic” wine. The vegetable’s deep colour comes from anthocyanins, the same compound that makes blueberries a superfood, offering a genuine boost to health.
A return to roots
Alongside the mangelwurzel, the Great Pavilion will also feature a stunning display of wisteria, a climbing plant that hasn't been seen in the tent for 15 years. The charity Plant Heritage will host six nurseries, showcasing national collections. However, the plant's notoriously unpredictable flowering times – influenced by fluctuating winter and spring conditions – have presented a significant challenge, with past attempts to bring it to Chelsea proving unsuccessful. Simone Daye, head gardener at the Brantwood Trust, has been meticulously monitoring the plants, moving them constantly to ensure optimal conditions.
Ultimately, the mangelwurzel’s unlikely triumph at Chelsea represents more than just a horticultural trend. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the unusual, and a reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected vegetables can lead to the greatest discoveries.