Did you know that broccoli is actually a flower?

It may not seem like it, but the crown of broccoli (the part that grows the little blue-green buds on top) is where the blossom would bloom. Farmers harvest broccoli when the buds are tightly closed to get the best flavor. If broccoli is left unattended for too long or is exposed to temperatures of below 50 degrees or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the buds will blossom.

The flowers are a light, pastel yellow with four petals and are very tiny. The flowers are also edible and can be eaten raw or cooked.