A tender, flat-leaved kale with grey-green, purple-veined foliage and a mild, sweet flavour. Hardy and ornamental, excellent for cut-and-come-again picking.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 70 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Kale 'Red Russian'
Botanically, Brassica oleracea 'Red Russian' is a moderate-growing edible plant in the Brassicaceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall at maturity.
Where to grow Kale 'Red Russian'
Kale 'Red Russian' suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Kale 'Red Russian' does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Kale 'Red Russian' does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Kale 'Red Russian' in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Kale 'Red Russian' in the garden
Kale 'Red Russian' earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Kale 'Red Russian' with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Kale 'Red Russian'
Plant Sale lists Kale 'Red Russian' as seed and seedlings. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Kale 'Red Russian' seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
