Type
dual-purpose, heirloom
Turnip variety
Purple Top White Globe Turnip
The classic American turnip with white roots topped by purple shoulders. It is widely grown for both roots and greens and remains one of the most familiar varieties.
Days to maturity
50-60
Best for
all-purpose home garden use
About Purple Top White Globe
Purple Top White Globe is a classic open-pollinated heirloom and one of the most widely grown turnips in the United States. It produces smooth, round, globe-shaped roots that are bright purple where they push above the soil line and creamy white below, with crisp white flesh that is mild and slightly sweet when harvested young. It is a dual-purpose variety, valued both for its roots and its edible greens.
Growing Purple Top White Globe Turnip
Direct sow in late summer for a fall crop or in early spring, thinning seedlings to about 3 to 4 inches apart so roots can size up. Turnips mature quickly, roughly 50 to 55 days, and are best pulled at 2 to 3 inches across because oversized roots turn woody and pithy. Keep the soil evenly moist and watch for flea beetles and cabbage-family root maggots.
Full growing guide
For planting dates, care, and harvest that apply to all turnips, see the complete guide.
How to grow TurnipsOther turnips varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; performance varies by climate, soil, and season. Seed and plant availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.