Sea Kale

Sea Kale (Crambe maritima) is a magnificent native perennial, historically prized for its blanched shoots in spring, which have a delicate, nutty flavour. It's also a striking ornamental. This tough plant forms a large mound, reaching an ultimate height of 75cm and a spread of 1m. Extremely hardy (H6), it thrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soil, tolerating coastal conditions. In late spring, it produces spectacular sprays of honey-scented white flowers, highly attractive to bees. Black-purple seed pods follow. A fascinating and gourmet vegetable for coastal or sunny, well-drained gardens.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, sandy soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.