Common Name:
Ornamental Cabbage and Kale
Jelena Witch Hazel

Scientific Name:
Brassica oleracea

Plant Description:

There is a renewed interest in growing ornamental or flowering cabbage and kale. Beautiful in a garden, these plants are very showy in a variety of colors, from white through pink or red, with a leaved center and green outer leaves. Identified by a number of names, such as floral kale, decorative kale, ornamental-leaved kale, and flower kale, ornamental cabbage and kale belong to the Brassica oleracca Acephala Group.

The culture of flowering kale is similar to that of kale, as both are commonly grown as a fall crop in the north. The seeds can be planted outdoors in early summer, and can also be grown in containers. They are often planted singly or in beds or groups, and can be transported for ornamental purposes. Plants grow to about one foot in diameter and about 15 in. tall (depending on the time of planting).

As their root system is not too extensive, plants can sometimes be dug up and potted in 8 to 10 in. pots to be used for decoration. They will last much longer indoors if placed in cool, brightly lit locations. Individual plants can also be cut off and used in floral decorations if desired.

Most authorities indicate that the leaves can be eaten, cooked or raw, but there is occasional disagreement; some say they could cause vomiting and diarrhea if eaten raw in large quantity by small children. The roots of the plant are most dangerous and should not be eaten.

Plant Uses:

The plants have unlimited use in the landscape. They are attractive in borders or can be used very effectively grouped in plantings of three, five, or more plants. They are good plants to use in containers for the deck or patio and for window boxes. They are especially good to use to replace warm season annuals for a fall or early winter display.

Ornamental cabbage and kale usually grow about eight to eighteen inches high and twelve inches or more across. For best displays, plants should be set about twelve to fifteen inches apart.

Unlike most annuals and perennials, cabbage and kale improve in appearance after a frost or two. Leaf color usually intensifies after a light fall frost. They are usually attractive in the garden until Thanksgiving or later. Hint – when the plants smell like cooked cabbage, it is time to pull them out!