Ornamental Kale 'Crane Red'

Crane Red (Brassica oleracea)

Add striking colour and structure to your fall garden and floral arrangements with Ornamental Kale 'Crane Red'. This variety features tall, sturdy stems topped with tightly layered rosettes of deep green leaves and rich, plum-red centres that intensify as the weather cools. Part of the Crane series, it’s bred for uniformity and exceptional performance in both the garden and the vase.

These edible yet ornamental plants are often called flowering kale or ornamental cabbage, and they're prized for their ability to extend the flower season well into autumn and early winter. Cold-tolerant and eye-catching, they’re excellent for fresh cut use, borders, or container displays. A must-have for late-season interest and texture in bouquets or floral centrepieces.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

SITE: Full Sun

TYPE: Annual

SEED DEPTH: 1/4 - 1/2"

GERMINATION: 10-14 days at 21-29°C

HEIGHT:  24 - 36"

MATURITY: 90 - 110 Days

SPACING: 4 - 6"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:

Indoors (recommended): Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before you plan to transplant them. After germination, grow seedlings in cool conditions (16–21°C for 3–4 weeks. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting outside.

Direct Seed (alternative): Sow seeds outdoors about 10–12 weeks before your first expected fall frost.

Pinching: When plants reach 10–12" tall, you can remove the lower leaves to encourage strong stem growth and a cleaner appearance. Repeat this 3–4 times as the plants mature.

Soil Preference and Watering: Ornamental kale thrives in full sun and requires well-drained, fertile soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and establishment.

Fertilizing: For vibrant colour and robust growth, amend the soil with compost before planting. You can also apply a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.

Harvesting: The vibrant colour of ornamental kale develops once nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 10°C. Harvest the stems for arrangements when they are firm and the colour is fully developed.