Kale Purple in 4 Inch Nursery Bag

Ornamental kale (purple variety) is a cool-season biennial typically grown as an annual for its vibrant, flower-like foliage. While technically edible, it is primarily prized for its decorative rosettes that intensify in color during frosty weather.

Benefits of Ornamental Purple Kale

• Late-Season Color:Provides striking jewel-toned purples and maroons when most other garden plants have faded.
• Cold Hardiness:Thrives in temperatures as low as5F to 20F(-15C to -6C) and becomes more vibrant after exposure to frost.
• Versatile Design:Ideal for mass plantings, garden borders, window boxes, and as a “thriller” element in mixed containers.
• Edible Garnish:Although bitter and tougher than culinary kale, the leaves are safe for human consumption and often used as a colorful garnish.
• Cut Flower Use:Stems can be used in floral arrangements, offering a unique texture and a vase life of up totwo weeks.

Care and Maintenance Tips

• Light:Requiresfull sun(at least 6 hours daily) for the best color development.
• Watering:Keep the soilconsistently moistbut well-drained. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew; water at the base or sides of the plant.
• Soil:Thrives in rich, loamy, and well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between5.5 and 6.5.
• Temperature:Performs best in cool weather (40F70F). High heat can cause the plant to “bolt” (send up a flower stalk) and lose its compact shape.
• Fertilizer:Apply abalanced, slow-release fertilizerat the time of planting. Avoid excessive fertilizing during the growing season, as it can cause leggy growth and dull foliage colors.
• Pest Control:Monitor for cabbage worms, aphids, and slugs. Useneem oilorBacillus thuringiensis (Bt)for organic control.
• Pruning:Remove any yellowing or damaged outer leaves to maintain a neat appearance and prevent disease.