Flowering Cabbage

Scientific Name: Brassica oleracea var. acephala

Common Name: Flowering Cabbage

Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Blooming Time: (Months) September to November; grown primarily for its colourful foliage rather than flowers

Bloom Duration: (Months) 2 to 3 months of peak ornamental colour, often lasting until hard frost

Fragrance: None

Plant Habit: Compact, upright to rounded

Characteristics: Ornamental foliage forms a dense rosette with green outer leaves and colourful inner leaves in shades of white, pink, purple or red. Cool temperatures intensify the foliage colour. Excellent for fall containers, borders and seasonal displays. It is closely related to edible kale and cabbage but is generally grown as an ornamental.

Spacing: 12 to 18 inches

Height: 12 to 18 inches

Width: 12 to 18 inches

Maintenance Requirements: Low maintenance; water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially in containers. Remove damaged outer leaves as needed. Performs best in cool weather and may tolerate light frost.