Purple Carrot Daucus carota 'Cosmic Purple'
ABOUT
The 'Cosmic Purple' carrot is a unique and striking variety known for its deep purple exterior with a bright orange interior. The roots of this plant are long and taper to a point, bearing the classic carrot shape. When you slice into a 'Cosmic Purple' carrot, you will find a vibrant contrast between the dark purple skin and the intense orange core, which sometimes radiates in streaks throughout the flesh. The foliage of the 'Cosmic Purple' carrot is green and feathery, resembling that of other carrot varieties with lacy leaves sprouting in a rosette pattern from the crown of the root. Carrots are generally biennial plants, with the 'Cosmic Purple' carrot producing its most prized purple roots in its first growing season, while flowering may occur in the second year if left to grow. The flowers, when produced, are small and white, and they appear in umbrella-like clusters. Overall, the striking coloration of the 'Cosmic Purple' carrot makes it a favorite not only for culinary uses but also a novelty in the garden for its aesthetic appeal.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae
Synonyms
Cosmic Purple Carrot, Purple Carrot
Common names
Daucus carota.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Cosmic Purple carrot is not toxic to humans. It is a type of cultivated carrot consumed as a vegetable and is known for its nutritional value including being rich in vitamins and fiber. There are no toxic effects or consequences associated with ingesting the Cosmic Purple carrot for the general population. However, like any food, individual allergies may exist, and eating it in excessive quantities could cause digestive discomfort due to its high fiber content.
To pets
Cosmic Purple carrot, commonly known as the carrot, is generally considered non-toxic to pets. In fact, carrots are often used as a healthy treat for dogs, being low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Feeding your pets small amounts of Cosmic Purple carrots should not cause any toxic effects. However, moderation is key as large quantities could potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the fiber content. Always introduce new foods to your pet's diet gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet (0.3 meters)
Spread
1 feet (0.3 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
varies
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Roots: Provides a source of food with its sweet and spicy flavored purple carrots.
- Nutritional Value: Contains essential nutrients like vitamin A, dietary fiber, antioxidants, and minerals.
- Gardening Interest: Adds visual interest to gardens with its unique purple-colored roots and attractive foliage.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts beneficial insects like bees, which are important for pollination of many other plants.
- Educational: Can be used to teach gardening techniques and the importance of plant diversity.
- Culinary Versatility: The roots can be used in a variety of dishes, adding color to salads, soups, and more.
- Climate Resilient: Adapts well to a range of climates and soil types, making it accessible for many gardeners.
- Companion Planting: Can be grown with other plants that have mutual benefits, such as tomatoes, improving overall garden health.
- Soil Improvement: Helps to break up compact soils with its deep roots, improving soil structure and fertility over time.
Medical Properties- Rich in beta-carotene – The roots of the purple carrot can potentially improve vision health as beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body.
- High in antioxidants – Purple carrots contain anthocyanins, which may reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease.
- Dietary fiber content – The fiber in carrots aids in digestion and can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Vitamin K provision – Essential for bone health and blood clotting, vitamin K can be found in carrots.
- Potassium source – Potassium in carrots can contribute to cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Fabric dye: The 'Cosmic Purple' carrot can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, imparting a soft purple or pink hue.
- Edible landscaping: This variety of carrot can add aesthetic appeal to a garden with its bold, purple coloring while also serving as a food source.
- Wildlife attraction: The blossoming tops of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots can attract beneficial insects and pollinators like bees to the garden.
- Science experiments: The vibrant color of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots makes them excellent for classroom projects, like testing the effects of pH on pigment release.
- Photography subject: The unique color of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots provides a striking subject for still life photography or botanical art.
- Companion planting: 'Cosmic Purple' carrots can be planted with other vegetables; they are believed to improve the flavor of tomatoes and peas when grown together.
- Craft materials: Thin slices of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots can be dried and used in crafting, such as creating natural beads for jewelry.
- Culinary presentations: Chefs can use the vivid hue of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots to enhance the visual appeal of their dishes and garnishes.
- Fermentation projects: These carrots can be used in home fermentation, making colorful pickles or kimchi.
- Teaching tool: 'Cosmic Purple' carrots can be used to introduce children to gardening and the concept of root vegetables, as the color excites curiosity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe purple carrot is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe purple carrot is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fertility: Carrots are often associated with fertility due to their rapid growth and abundant seed production.
- Grounding: As a root vegetable, carrots symbolize being grounded or connected to the earth, representing stability and support.
- Nourishment: Carrots, a nutritious food, are symbolic of health and sustenance, providing essential nutrients and energy.
- Abundance: With their prolific nature and easy-to-grow reputation, carrots represent abundance and the ability to provide for one's needs.
- Clarity and Vision: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is good for eyesight; thus, they symbolize clarity of vision and foresight.
WaterThe 'Cosmic Purple' carrot, commonly known as purple carrot, requires consistent moisture, especially during the early stages of growth, and should be watered deeply. Aim for at least one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. In hotter, drier periods, increase watering but avoid over-saturation as this can lead to root rot. Water the carrots with a gentle spray to avoid disturbing the soil or damaging the developing roots, and do so early in the day to allow foliage to dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
LightPurple carrots thrive best in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. An ideal spot would be an open area without shade or shadow from nearby structures or trees during the day. Adequate light is crucial for their growth and development, so ensure they are planted where they can receive uninterrupted sunlight.
TemperaturePurple carrots prefer cooler climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F, making them ideal for spring and fall planting. The optimal temperature range for growing purple carrots is between 60°F and 70°F. They can survive up to temperatures of 85°F, but higher temperatures may affect their growth and flavor.
PruningFor purple carrots, pruning is not applicable as they are a root vegetable. They do not require pruning like other ornamental or fruiting plants. Instead, thinning is important to provide ample space for individual carrots to grow adequately. Thin the seedlings to about 2 to 3 inches apart once they are a few inches tall, usually 3 to 4 weeks after sowing.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for growing Cosmic Purple carrots, a biennial root crop, should be well-drained, sandy or loamy, and rich in organic matter. A neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.8 is optimal for growth. Avoid heavy clay soils and ensure good soil depth to accommodate root growth.
RepottingCosmic Purple carrots are not typically repotted as they are a biennial root vegetable. Instead, they are sown directly into the ground or containers and harvested within a single growing season, so repotting is not applicable.
Humidity & MistingCosmic Purple carrots, being a root vegetable, are not particularly sensitive to humidity levels. They thrive outdoors and don't require specific humidity conditions, although moderate ambient outdoor humidity is generally favorable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Cosmic Purple carrots in deep pots with drainage, using well-drained soil.
Outdoor
Plant Cosmic Purple carrots in full sun, well-drained fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
3-10 USDA.
Life cycleThe life of the 'Cosmic Purple' carrot begins with seed germination, which occurs when soil temperatures are consistently above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, usually in the early spring. Following germination, the seedlings establish a small rosette of foliage at the soil surface while the root begins to develop and elongate underground. As the plant matures, the foliage becomes more pronounced, and the distinctive purple carrot root thickens, drawing nutrients from the soil. During its growth, the 'Cosmic Purple' carrot completes its vegetative state in one growing season but is considered a biennial, meaning it will not flower until its second year if left in the ground over winter. In this second year, the plant will produce a flowering stalk with small, white flowers arranged in an umbel, characteristic of the Apiaceae family, leading to seed formation. Once seeds are produced and dispersed, the life cycle can begin anew with the next generation of 'Cosmic Purple' carrots.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The 'Cosmic Purple' carrot is typically propagated through the sowing of seeds. The best time to plant these seeds is in the spring, after the last frost has passed, since they need cool soil to start germination, typically between 55°F and 65°F (approximately 13°C to 18°C). The seeds should be planted directly into the ground in a location that receives full sunlight. They are sown about 1/4-inch (6 mm) deep into loose, well-draining soil that has been enhanced with organic matter. Thinning seedlings to 3 inches (approximately 7.5 cm) apart once they have a couple of leaves ensures that the carrots have adequate space to grow. Regular watering helps maintain an even moisture level until germination, which usually takes 14 to 21 days. This direct seeding is the most common and virtually the only commercial method of growing carrots as they do not transplant well and are not typically propagated by any means other than seed.
