Ornamental Kale
(Brassica oleracea)
Hardy to Zone 2
Colors - White, Purple, Red, Pink
Foliage - Large rosettes of broad flat leaves
Size - 1 - 1.5 feet tall and wide
Exposure - Full sun
Culture - Ornamental Kale (or Ornamental Cabbage if you prefer) is second only to pansies as a colorful option for winter containers or planting in the ground. The plant is a member of the mustard family. They can be planted in the fall (from seed or transplants) and when colder temperatures and frosts approach, the color intensifies. They like sunny locations although they will grow in shadier areas, the color may not be as vivid. They also may become leggy if not given enough sun. Although edible, they are not as tasty as regular cabbages and kale and are grown mainly for decorative purposes.
I've had hit-and-miss experiences growing ornamental kale. Some years they do well, some years not. Colder temperatures are a must as they will bolt in warmer climes. They respond well to fertilizer although I confess I usually forget to fertilize them. They do not like extreme wet conditions and are especially vulnerable to freezing rain, which leaves them puny and limp. If freezing rain is predicted, cover the plants if you can until the danger has past.
Return to Perennials and Annuals
Colors - White, Purple, Red, Pink
Foliage - Large rosettes of broad flat leaves
Size - 1 - 1.5 feet tall and wide
Exposure - Full sun
Culture - Ornamental Kale (or Ornamental Cabbage if you prefer) is second only to pansies as a colorful option for winter containers or planting in the ground. The plant is a member of the mustard family. They can be planted in the fall (from seed or transplants) and when colder temperatures and frosts approach, the color intensifies. They like sunny locations although they will grow in shadier areas, the color may not be as vivid. They also may become leggy if not given enough sun. Although edible, they are not as tasty as regular cabbages and kale and are grown mainly for decorative purposes.
I've had hit-and-miss experiences growing ornamental kale. Some years they do well, some years not. Colder temperatures are a must as they will bolt in warmer climes. They respond well to fertilizer although I confess I usually forget to fertilize them. They do not like extreme wet conditions and are especially vulnerable to freezing rain, which leaves them puny and limp. If freezing rain is predicted, cover the plants if you can until the danger has past.
Return to Perennials and Annuals