Brassica oleracea /ˈbɹæsɪkæ ɔleˈɹaɪsiæ/
Common name: Kale · Cabbage · Broccoli · Cauliflower · Brussels sprouts · Kohlrabi
Brassica oleracea is a biennial in the mustard family (Brassicaceae), native to the coastal cliffs of western and southern Europe. Through centuries of selective breeding of a single wild species, it has given rise to an astonishing range of vegetables, from leaf crops like kale to flower-bud crops like broccoli. Most cultivated forms are grown as cool-season annuals or biennials.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun, 6+ hours daily
Water
Evenly moist soil; consistent watering
Soil
Fertile, well-draining, pH 6.0–7.5
Hardiness
Zones 2–11; frost-tolerant
Mature height
0.3–1 m (1–3 ft) depending on variety
Pet safe
Non-toxic; large amounts may upset pet digestion
Difficulty
Moderate
Propagation
Grown from seed, usually started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost for spring crops or sown mid-summer for autumn harvests. Sow about 1 cm deep, transplant seedlings when they have 4-5 true leaves, and harden them off before moving outside.
Fun facts
- Kale, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi, and collard greens are all one species.
- Each crop was bred for a different plant part — leaves, buds, flowers, stems, or side shoots.
- Kale's flavor actually improves after a light frost, which converts starches into sugars.