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| Redbor ornamental kale (Photo by Allen Owings, LSU AgCenter) |
Ornamental kale and cabbage are becoming increasingly popular as fall bedding plants for Louisiana. These plants have feathery leaves of robust colors that make them well-suited for landscape and container plantings.
New hybrid varieties are more uniform, compact and colorful than the older, open-pollinated varieties. Selecting the correct variety to grow in Louisiana depends on individual preference.
Peacock kale is available in white and red and has a striking appearance with deeply serrated and feathery leaves. Nogoya kale comes in white and red and has heavily crinkled leaves with vibrant colors. It is great for container plantings.
Osaka cabbage, also referred to as the Dynasty series, has semi-fringed leaves on a plant with a large, brightly colored center. Toyko cabbage is red, white or pink with smooth, waxy-edged leaves. A smaller plant, Tokyo is frequently used in flower arrangements.
An edible kale, Redbor, has been recognized as a Louisiana Super Plant. It has great cold tolerance for the coldest winters and will last longer into spring than other kale varieties. Another kale, Glamour Red, is an All-America Selection winner.
Flowering cabbage and kale management in the landscape is similar to that of garden varieties.
Flowering kale and cabbage have several uses in the landscape. Try them as a background plant for a pansy or viola planting. Proper management will lead to success.
Allen Owings
Rick Bogren