Ornamental Cabbage

[dsyukon]

Is ornamental cabbage edible ?

[cynthia_h]

Technically, yes. They are edible because they won't produce a toxic reaction, but the U. Wisconsin Extension describes other, normal kales and cabbages as "more tasty" and describes ornamentals as having a "bitter" aftertaste.

Cynthia H.
Sunset Zone 17, USDA Zone 9

[!potatoes!]

some ornamental kales are noted for also having decent flavor - red chidori comes to mind - but like cynthia says, they're the minority.

[applestar]

I was thinking of doing the opposite -- planting colorful cultivars of the eating varieties. Last year, I planted Red Russian Kale along the Front Fence Row and in the flower bed by the front porch. They looked great even well into frost and freeze, though they are starting to succumb to the deep freeze.

I also have radicchio that manages to overwinter here -- in fact, they are forming heads right now. These have been self seeding and I think will become a permanent member of my garden.

I'm planning to plant red/purple Brussels sprouts this year as well.

[DoubleDogFarm]

and throw in a little Bright Lights chard.

Eric

[!potatoes!]

haven't grown it yet, but i've been hearing a fair amount of talk about Red Ursa kale - very hardy, colorful/attractive, and good flavor...that's the word. I'm growing it this following year...will report more than hearsay when I'm able

looks like a textural halfway point between red russian and curly kale.