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The "Komatsu-na" (Brassica rapa var. peruviridis) belongs to Brassiaceae (the Mustard family). It is an annual herb that is considered to be a variery of Turnip. This herb is closely related to the Turnip, though its root doesn't grow thickening. The leaves are long-ovate, smooth, and they are used for vegetables. They contain a higher proportion of vitamin and calcium than spinach. The Japanese name "Komatsu-na" is derived from the production region; Komatsugawa of Tokyo, in Edo Era (1603-1868). The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is a leading producer of "Komatsu-na" even now.
There are three main types of "komatsu-na" : early, mid-ripening and late, as well as many regional varieties. They can also be broadly divided into three groups based on the shape of their leaves. There are three types: the "Muko" type, which has a round leaf blade and no petiole; the "Yuuko" type, which has a leaf blade that extends to the base of the petiole; and the "Intermediate" type, which has a leaf blade that is only slightly attached to the petiole. Generally, fixed varieties are mostly of the "Yuuko" type, while hybrid varieties are either of the "Muko" type or the "Intermediate" type.
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