Cauliflower is a variety (Botrytis Group) of Brassica oleracea in the family Brassicaceae (the same species as broccoli, which it strongly resembles). It is an annual plant that reproduces by seed. Typically, only the head (the white curd) is eaten while the stalk and surrounding thick, green leaves are discarded. Cauliflower is extremely nutritious, and may be eaten cooked, raw or pickled. Its name is a variation of cole flower or kale flower (cole and kale being variations of the same word), an acknowledgement of its unusual place among a family of food plants which normally produces only leafy greens for eating. It is of the very same species as cabbage, mustard greens, and brussels sprouts, for example.