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Organic Kale ‘Nero di Toscana’
£2.35
Availability: In stock
Brassica Oleracea var Sabellica – 0.36g – Approx 100 seeds
Nero di Toscana is also known as black Tuscan kale or cavolo nero. It is a speciality crop from Italy where it has been grown since 18th century.
It is slightly sweeter and more delicate than curly kale.
Sometimes it is called dinosaur kale as its leaves are bumpy like a dinosaurs skin (a good story for the little ones!)
Nero di Toscana’s leaves are long and thin and they are often harvested from the bottom of the plant so that the remaining plant resembles a palm tree. We often plant them in our garden border at home for height and interest.
The seeds should be sown in modules in the spring. Transplant in the summer when the plants are about 10-15cm tall and space around 50cm apart. Harvest the leaves as required or during the Autumn and winter.
Seed Story
Kale has been grown as a food crop for thousands of years.
Kale is considered to be closer to the wild cabbage than many of the domesticated brassica oleracea family.
Curly and flat leaved cabbages existed in Greece in 4th Century and it is these types, which the Romans called Sabellian kale, that are considered to be the ancestors of todays kale.
Kale has always been popular in colder countries as it thrives in winter. It is hardy down to around -15°c. It often becomes sweeter after a heavy frost.
Kale is packed with fibre, antioxidants, iron, vitamins C and K and calcium. In world war II, growing it was encouraged for these vital nutrients.
Kale can be enjoyed in many ways – baked, steamed, sautéed or fresh in smoothies.
We love to make Kale crisps!