Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia Seeds | Black Kale
LATIN NAME: Brassica oleracea var. Palmifolia
COMMON NAME: Black Kale, Cavolo Nero, Tuscan Kale
Plant Profile
Black Kale (Brassica oleracea var. palmifolia) is the Tuscan or dinosaur kale, a non-heading form of the cabbage species of the family Brassicaceae, grown in Italy for centuries. It forms upright rosettes of long, narrow, deeply blistered, blue-black leaves with a rich, sweet flavour that improves after frost. One of the oldest kales still grown, it is the classic leaf of ribollita and minestrone.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the Brassica group, Brassica oleracea var. Palmifolia contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Black kale’s exceptionally high concentration of dark pigments and glucosinolate compounds has made it a frequently studied cultivar within broader body of nutritional research into brassica vegetables, contributing to its modern reputation as a particularly nutrient-dense leafy green. It retains a following among breeders and collectors, which keeps seed stocks in circulation.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Black Kale for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. It has also become a fashionable choice in modern international cooking well beyond its traditional Italian roots, prized both for flavour and its striking dark appearance. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
The cabbage family is the cornerstone of cancer-prevention nutrition research: glucosinolates in broccoli, kale, mustard and their kin convert to sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, compounds studied intensively for their role in cellular defense. Few plant groups have stronger evidence as everyday functional foods.
Growing from Seed
Raising Black Kale from seed is straightforward. Sow seed into a loose, well-drained mix at a shallow depth, keeping it consistently moist until germination. Full sun to light shade suits this hardy crop well, and it tolerates cold remarkably well, with flavour genuinely improving after exposure to a light frost late in growing season. Sow the seeds evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, keep the sowing evenly moist, and give the pot or tray full sun. Once the seedlings have made true leaves, pot them on individually and plant out when they are sturdy and conditions are right.
Our Take
Black Kale, Cavolo Nero, Tuscan Kale earns its space through character rather than fuss. Beginners will find it patient of imperfect technique.
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