Calabrese is the large-headed type often sold encased in a tight plastic sheath; broccoli is the sprouting type, whether that’s purple, green or white sprouting ... You may also come across broccoli ...

The most common variety of broccoli is calabrese, which is available all year round. Long-stemmed sprouting broccoli, which may be either green or purple, is in season during the spring ...

Besides the subtle blue hue, it looks relatively similar to Calabrese ... after you plant the seeds. You may also find it at a farmer’s market. Burbank broccoli has thin green stalks and tufts ...