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Description
Crambe Fruticosa, commonly known as sea kale, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to the coastal regions of Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its edible leaves, stems, and buds. The plant has a compact and bushy growth habit and can reach a height of up to 1 meter. It produces small white flowers that are arranged in large panicles and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Crambe |
Appearance
The leaves of Crambe Fruticosa are thick, glossy, and blue-green in color. They are arranged in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant and are deeply lobed with wavy edges. The stem is woody, branching, and covered with a whitish-gray bark. The plant has a strong taproot that allows it to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. The flowers are small and white with four petals and are arranged in large panicles that can reach up to 50 cm in length. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer, and the flowers are followed by small seed pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Crambe Fruticosa is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week in the absence of rainfall.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers a sandy, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crambe Fruticosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Whiteflies
- Root rot
- Leaf spot
To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering the plant, provide good air circulation, and remove any infected leaves or stems immediately.
Habitat
Crambe Fruticosa is native to the coastal regions of Europe and Asia and is commonly found growing on sand dunes, cliffs, and rocky shores. It prefers well-drained soil, full sun, and a moderate climate with cool summers and mild winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crambe Fruticosa edible?
A: Yes, the leaves, stems, and buds of the plant are edible and can be cooked or eaten raw.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crambe Fruticosa?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Q: Is Crambe Fruticosa drought tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant has a strong taproot that allows it to tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Crambe Fruticosa?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Related Plants
- Crambe Maritima
- Crambe Abyssinica
- Crambe Cordifolia
- Crambe Tataria
References
- “Crambe Fruticosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287008.
- “Crambe Fruticosa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2340/Crambe-fruticosa/Details.
- “Sea Kale (Crambe Fruticosa).” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/sea-kale-plant-profile-5070190.
