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Flowering sea kale

Crambe cordifoliafam. Brassicaceae
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edibleperennialculinarydrought tolerantedibleedible leafnative asiaperennial
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Crambe cordifolia (Flowering sea kale) — botanical photograph
Pl. D597 — Crambe cordifolia
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Overview

Flowering sea kale (Crambe cordifolia) is a perennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family, native to regions such as Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan. Thriving in a variety of soil types—light, medium, or heavy—and capable of tolerating both full sun and partial shade, this plant is adaptable to diverse growing conditions. Growing up to 2 meters tall, flowering sea kale is known for its edible leaves and roots, which can be consumed raw or cooked, adding a mild, slightly bitter taste to dishes. The plant is also valued as a ground cover and for its fragrance, making it a useful addition to gardens and landscapes. Its native range extends from the North Caucasus to the West Himalaya, showcasing its adaptability across diverse climates. Introduced into Great Britain, flowering sea kale is appreciated for its culinary and ornamental value. While not medicinal, it is important to note that the plant should be handled with care, especially when preparing and consuming it, due to its bitter taste.

Quick answers

What is Flowering sea kale?

Flowering sea kale (Crambe cordifolia) is a perennial plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family, native to regions such as Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan.

Compare with:Desert Pepperweed→Rock Cress→Arabis serrata→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Flowering sea kale thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will grow better in moist conditions. This perennial is hardy in zones 5-9 and can reach a height of 2 meters. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or divide the roots in spring or fall. The edible parts include the leaves and roots, making it a versatile addition to the garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
2.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Flowering sea kale for the first time

8steps

Start with Flowering sea kale as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A packet of Flowering sea kale seeds or young plants, a trowel, and mulch.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure full sun to partial shade.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep in the garden bed. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide with good drainage holes.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring with compost or aged manure.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The flowering sea kale is eaten for its leaves and roots. The leaves can be consumed raw or cooked, while the roots are typically boiled before eating. Both parts add a mild, slightly bitter taste to dishes.
Other uses:Ground coverFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

13 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 13 native· 1 introduced
Europe2 regions
native (1)Russia
introduced (1)United Kingdom
Asia7 regions
native (7)AfghanistanChinaIranKazakhstanPakistanTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Kirgizstan, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, West Himalaya
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Crambe cordifolia (Flowering sea kale) — botanical photograph
Flowering sea kale (Crambe cordifolia)
X

See also

8 related
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Explore further

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