Contents
Description
Crambe maritima, commonly known as sea kale, is a perennial plant that belongs to the cabbage family. It is native to the coasts of Europe, from the northern regions of Scandinavia down to the southern coasts of France. It is a very hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of soil types, as well as tolerate salt spray and strong winds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Crambe |
Appearance
The sea kale plant grows up to 60cm tall, with thick and fleshy leaves that are bluish-green in color. The leaves are large and can grow up to 30cm long and 15cm wide. The plant produces a large, upright flower stalk that can grow up to 1m tall, with small, white flowers. The flowers are followed by large, triangular-shaped seed pods that are up to 3cm long.
Care Guide
Sea kale is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, but prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate salt spray and strong winds, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens.
Water: Sea kale requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Sea kale does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Soil: Sea kale prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Sea kale prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Sea kale is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sea kale is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to slugs, which can be controlled by using slug pellets or by applying a barrier of crushed eggshells around the base of the plant.
Habitat
Sea kale is native to the coasts of Europe, from the northern regions of Scandinavia down to the southern coasts of France. It can be found growing on shingle beaches, sand dunes, and rocky cliffs. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate salt spray and strong winds, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can sea kale be grown in containers?
A: Yes, sea kale can be grown in containers as long as the container is deep enough for the plant’s root system.
Q: Can sea kale be grown from seed?
A: Yes, sea kale can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in early spring in a well-draining soil and keep the soil moist.
Q: Is sea kale edible?
A: Yes, sea kale is edible and its young leaves and stems can be cooked and eaten like asparagus. However, it is important to note that the plant is protected in some areas, so check local regulations before harvesting.
Q: Can sea kale be grown in hot and humid climates?
A: Sea kale prefers cooler temperatures and is not well-suited to hot and humid climates.
Related Plants
- Brassica oleracea
- Brassica nigra
- Brassica rapa
- Brassica juncea
References
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17882/crambe-maritima/details
- https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/crambe-maritima/
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/sea-kale/
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crambe+maritima
