Kale 'Half Tall Curly Scarlet'

This beautiful and productive kale variety is highly valued for its intense purple-red, heavily curled leaves that turn a deep violet after the first autumn frosts. Reaching a height of about 60cm, its "half-tall" stature makes it more stable in wind-swept UK gardens than taller varieties, while still producing a generous harvest. It is exceptionally hardy, classified as H5, and can be harvested throughout the coldest winter months when little else is growing in the vegetable patch. The vibrant colour makes it a popular choice for ornamental bedding and mixed borders as much as for the kitchen. When cooked, the leaves turn dark green, but they retain a sweet, nutty flavour that is less bitter than many green kales. It is best sown from May to July for autumn and winter use. To maintain the best leaf quality, protect the plants from pigeons during the winter with netting. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained, firm, alkaline soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.