As summer gives way to crisp autumn air, many gardens go soft and lose their vibrancy. However, ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and kale can keep your garden colourful and captivating even deep into late fall and early winter. These stunning plants are close relatives of edible cabbages and broccoli but are grown for their dramatic foliage rather than for their flowers. Ornamental cabbage and kale are ideal for replacing summer annuals, adding texture, and depth to the garden because of their bright rosettes in white, pink, purple, and red.
Despite their name, ornamental cabbage and kale are technically all kales, not forming heads like common cabbages. But for practicality, conventionally, those with curled or ruffled leaves are referred to as ornamental kale, whereas flat or smooth leaves are called ornamental cabbage. Both grow about a foot wide and 15 inches in height, making them handy for edging borders, container arrangements, or mass planting.
Ornamental Cabbage: A Cool-Weather Beauty
Ornamental cabbage and kale have one of the prettiest reactions to cold temperatures. If it gets cold enough, the colors are enhanced and brightened by frost on the pink, red, and white varieties. These plants perform well in the cool days of fall and the lows will only reach 5˚ F, so they provide long-season interest in the garden.
They are highly flexible and can fit into any environment. They thrive with direct sunlight and moderately moist, well-drained soil. With other cool-season crops such as pansies, snapdragons, or Swiss chard, they make excellent arrangements. They also complement fall perennials like asters, tall sedums, and little bluestem grass, creating dynamic contrast in the garden.
Growing and Maintaining Ornamental Cabbage
-
Cultivating ornamental cabbage and kale requires some planning. They are cool-season plants that struggle in the summer heat, so it’s best to start seeds in mid-summer or purchase transplants for a fall display. Seeds need light to germinate and should be sown about 6–10 weeks before the first frost. For gardeners in warmer regions, keeping seeds in a refrigerator for a few days can encourage germination.
-
Plant at the correct time. When planting, bury the stem so that the lowest leaves are nestled flush with the soil surface, and ensure the plants are watered regularly. Ornamental cabbage and kale grow only very slightly after planting, so purchase plants that already have their full size and color. This means an immediate impact on the garden.
Although pests such as cabbage worms, cutworms, and aphids do occasionally occur, cooler autumn weather tends to decrease the possibility of large infestations.
Popular Ornamental Cabbage Cultivars
With many varieties available, you can choose from a wide range of ornamental cabbages and kales to suit your garden design. Here are some favorites:
-
‘Chidori’ Series: Curly-leafed kale with magenta or cream centers.
-
‘Nagoya’ Series: Crinkled leaves in colors ranging from fuchsia to creamy white.
-
‘Peacock’ Series: Feathery leaves in red or white shades.
-
‘Osaka’ Series: Compact cabbage type with pink, red, or white centers.
-
‘Tokyo’ Series: Smooth, rounded cabbage with soft pink or white centers.
-
‘Pigeon’ Series: Flat cabbage heads with single or triple-colored centers.
A Versatile and Hardy Addition
In addition to their ornamental value, these plants are technically edible, though they are more bitter than traditional cabbages and kales. Their vibrant leaves are often used as garnishes, adding a decorative touch to plates.
Economic Importance of Ornamental Cabbage
It is a valuable asset in the horticulture industry, offering economic benefits across landscaping, nursery trade, and urban greening. Its vibrant foliage makes it a favorite for seasonal decor, boosting demand in public parks, gardens, and private spaces. The plant generates income for nurseries, landscapers, and florists, while also creating job opportunities along its supply chain.
With export potential in the floriculture market, ornamental cabbage contributes to international trade. It’s also used in decorative floral arrangements and educational gardening programs, adding value beyond aesthetics. Furthermore, its low-maintenance, cold-tolerant nature supports sustainable urban beautification initiatives. In essence, ornamental cabbage combines beauty with economic viability, supporting industries from landscaping to exports while promoting sustainable and profitable horticulture.
Ornamental cabbage and kale are more than just plants; they're fall decked out in glory. Whether used as a striking centerpiece in a container or part of a vibrant border, they bring charm and resilience to a garden. For the autumn season, consider adding these cool-weather favorites to your landscape for a season of unforgettable color and texture.
