fruit vegetable

Wild Cabbage

Brassica oleracea

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Biennial, typically grown as an annual

Native To

Coastal southern and western Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

A highly diverse biennial species, usually grown as an annual. It is the parent species for many common vegetables, cultivated for its leaves (cabbage, kale), stems (kohlrabi), flower buds (broccoli, cauliflower), and leaf buds (Brussels sprouts). Remarkable for its morphological plasticity, which has allowed for the development of numerous and distinct cultivar groups from a single species. Many varieties are cool-season crops, with flavor often improving after a light frost.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Brassica oleracea adds lush, edible greenery to vegetable gardens and borders, providing visual interest and fresh harvests.

Rich in vitamins C and K, it supports healthy eating and can be stored for winter use.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects, promoting garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining, fertile soil and prepare the bed.
Sow seeds ½ inch deep in early spring or late summer.
Keep soil moist and maintain consistent watering.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
Harvest leaves when young and tender, typically 30-60 days after planting.

Pro Tip

Use row covers to protect from pests and extend the growing season.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Fertilize with compost or organic fertilizer monthly
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not plant in poorly drained soil
Skip fertilizing during dormant periods

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Edible border in vegetable gardensHerbaceous perennial groundcoverCulinary decorative foliage

Companion Plants

Tomatoes Onions Dill Marigolds Potatoes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wild Cabbage questions

What zones can Wild Cabbage grow in?

Wild Cabbage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wild Cabbage deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Wild Cabbage, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Wild Cabbage bloom?

Wild Cabbage typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wild Cabbage need full sun?

Wild Cabbage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.