Species

Brassica oleraceaWild Cabbage

12 other cultivars

annual

Red Russian Kale

Brassica oleracea 'Red Russian'

The Story

Plant Bio

Red Russian Kale is known for its ornamental leaves that add color to gardens, as well as its culinary uses.

This cultivar, a type of Siberian kale (Brassica napus), has tender, flat, oak-leaf shaped, blue-green leaves with attractive purple stems and veins. It is known for its sweet flavor, especially after a frost.

Uses & Benefits:

Red Russian kale offers vibrant color and ornamental appeal in vegetable gardens and flower beds.

Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, it provides nutritious greens for salads and cooking.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects when flowering.

SpeciesBrassica oleraceaWild Cabbage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Biennial, grown as an annual

Native To

Siberia (cultivar)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Early fall

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep into well-draining soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist for optimal germination, approximately 7-10 days.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once seedlings are established.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain even moisture.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Harvest leaves when young and tender, typically 60-80 days after planting.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds for healthier growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Use organic compost to enrich soil before planting
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding

Don't

Avoid letting soil dry out completely
Do not over-fertilize, which can cause excessive leafy growth
Refrain from planting in poorly drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Edible leafy borderVegetable garden centerpieceColorful kitchen garden patch

Companion Plants

Potatoes Onions Marigolds Dill Celery

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Russian Kale questions

What zones can Red Russian Kale grow in?

Red Russian 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 Red Russian Kale deer resistant?

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

When does Red Russian Kale bloom?

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

Does Red Russian Kale need full sun?

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