The old Flat Egyptian, formerly favored as a first-early beet is now limited in commercial availability as it is not earlier than the new strains.

The Crosby Egyptian and Early Wonder are generally recommended when an early variety is needed. Both have slightly flattened, and have alternate zones of purplish red and purplish pink flesh in warm weather. when harvested in cool weather the differences in color are less and the flesh has a darker hue.

Globe-shaped or only slightly flatten beets are the most popular in the United States.

The first Hybrid Pacemaker are large topped and the roots are deeply pigmented, smooth and round.