Spotlight on: Gimli

What is Gimli RZ, and how is it different to standard celery?

Gimli RZ is a mini celery — it grows to about 30 cm at maturity, so it’s smaller by design, and has a premium eating quality.

What’s nice is that it’s not just picked early to get that size — it’s actually bred to be smaller at full maturity. So you still get that consistency and quality, just in a more compact, uniform product that’s easier to handle and works really well for retail and foodservice.

And importantly, it doesn’t have the strings and ridges you’d expect from traditional celery. That makes it much better to eat raw — especially for kids — and it also works really well in cooking, particularly in Asian cuisine. It’s a product that is really becoming successful in China for that reason.

What are the key benefits for growers?

Gimli RZ is a faster-growing celery, which helps keep production efficient and supply reliable. It’s nice and uniform, so harvest and presentation are consistent, and the strong plant vigour means it performs well in the field.

For growers, it offers an opportunity to diversify into a higher-value segment, while spending less on inputs, and maintaining predictable production.

Where does Gimli RZ fit in the market?

Gimli RZ is designed to meet a clear shift in consumer behaviour — towards smaller, more convenient vegetables.

With smaller households, there’s growing demand for produce that fits easily into the fridge and can be used without waste. Mini celery offers a practical solution, while also opening up new usage occasions in both retail and foodservice.

It also aligns with the growth in convenient, healthy snacking — offering a fresh, portable option that can move through the supply chain as a whole product.

What opportunities does this create for growers and retailers?

Rather than competing directly with traditional celery for shelf space, Gimli RZ creates an opportunity to increase the celery category, with a premium segment.

For growers, this means the potential to supply a differentiated product into a developing market, supported by clear consumer trends.

What support does Rijk Zwaan offer growers wanting to trial Gimli RZ?

Gimli RZ is a commercially available variety, with trial results and insights from a range of growing conditions

Our team works closely with growers to support trialling, planning and production, providing practical guidance throughout the season to help optimise performance and market fit.

How do you like to use mini celery at home?

It’s a go-to for lunchboxes — the size works well, but it’s also crunchier and stringless, which makes it a hit with the kids. And… am I allowed to say this? It’s perfect for Bloody Marys.