Grouping according to the parts which are eaten Types of cabbage have been known in Europe since as long ago as the eighth century. As well as by appearance, flavour and shape, they are also distinguished by the fact that different parts of the plant are used for eating. In the case of red cabbage, white cabbage and kale, it is the leaves which are consumed, whereas with cauliflower and broccoli it is the flower buds, also known as florets.
