They are biennial plants that are grown commercially as annuals. Swedes are often confused with turnips, but they differ in having greyish green, deeply lobed, non-hairy leaves and a distinct neck between the swollen 'root' and the leaves. They mature in 90 to 120 days compared with 60 to 80 days for turnips. Swedes also have larger, more elongated, roots, and the base of the root is usually light yellow and not white. The main production area is between Wanneroo and Baldivis.
Production is highest in the cooler months.
Produce is mainly marketed fresh on the local market and a small proportion of the crop is marketed in mixed vegetable or soup packs. Swedes and turnips are mainly used as cooked vegetables, in soups, stews and casseroles. Turnips may also be used in salads, especially the Japanese varieties. However, they give the highest yields and quality if sown in summer and autumn to mature in winter and spring. Swedes are not affected by frost and turnips may be only slightly damaged.