Species

Brassica oleraceaWild Cabbage

12 other cultivars

fruit vegetable

Ornamental Kale

Brassica oleracea 'Richmond's Pride'

The Story

Plant Bio

Brassica oleracea, or ornamental kale, is a cool-season biennial typically grown as an annual for its colorful, rosette-forming foliage. It produces yellow flowers when it bolts in its second year.

This cultivar is valued for its ornamental qualities in spring and fall gardens, showcasing vibrant foliage. While edible, it is typically more bitter than culinary varieties.

Uses & Benefits:

Brassica oleracea adds lush greenery and edible foliage to vegetable gardens and landscape beds, enhancing visual appeal.

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, it provides nutritious leaves for healthy meals.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects when flowering, promoting garden biodiversity.

SpeciesBrassica oleraceaWild Cabbage

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, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds ½ inch deep into moist, well-drained soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established for optimal growth.
Fertilize with a balanced vegetable fertilizer every 4 weeks.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvest leaves when young and tender, usually 30-60 days after planting.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote lush, healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Apply organic mulch to retain moisture
Fertilize every 4 weeks

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't let plants dry out during hot weather
Avoid using chemical pesticides without proper guidance

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

Vegetable garden bed with lush, edible leavesEdging plant with vibrant green foliageKitchen garden border for easy harvest

Companion Plants

Carrots Onions Dill Celery Potatoes

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ornamental Kale questions

What zones can Ornamental Kale grow in?

Ornamental Kale 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 Ornamental Kale deer resistant?

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

When does Ornamental Kale bloom?

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

Does Ornamental Kale need full sun?

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