Crambe maritima (Sea kale)


Michael's Opinion

This is a stunning plant but as the image indicates in must be grown in lean conditions for it to flourish. Planting it is well worth the effort.

Botanical Information

FamilyBrassicaceae
GenusCrambe
Speciesmaritima
CategoryPerennials, Wildflowers & Weeds
OriginEurope, North Africa, SouthWest Asia.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone5 - 9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone4a - Requires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3 - H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-29 -(-1)
Temperature (°F)-20 - 30
Height50 - 100 cm
Spread10 - 50 cm
Flowering PeriodJune

Description and Growing Information

PropagationRoot cuttings or seed.
CultivationOrganically rich, sandy, well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
PestsSlugs and caterpillars.
Leaf DescriptionLarge, fleshy basal leaves that resemble cabbage leaves. They are edible.
Flower DescriptionSmall, white, four-petalled flowers with a strong fragrant. They are edible.

Photographs