The Essential Guide To The Kale
Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea (Acephala Group)
Common Name: Ornamental Kale, Flowering Kale
General Knowledge: The ornamental kale, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea, originally hails from the Mediterranean region, showcasing its versatility and adaptability across various climates. Primarily used for decorative purposes in gardens and floral arrangements, its vibrant and unique foliage brings a touch of rustic elegance and visual interest to any setting. A fun fact about this intriguing plant is that despite its name and appearance, it is actually a type of cabbage, and while it is edible, it's more commonly admired for its aesthetic appeal rather than its culinary uses.
Colour Range: Silver-green leaves with a heart that can be purple, pink, or cream.
Australian Seasonal Availability: Autumn to Winter
Australian Wedding and Event Season Availability: Due to its availability in the cooler months, Kale is suitable for autumn and winter weddings or events, providing a unique and robust option for floral arrangements.
Commercially Grown in Australia: Yes
Imported into Australia: Not commonly imported as it is readily available from local growers.
Buying Tips: Look for straight stems and undamaged heads with a compact and well-formed centre, displaying bright colour. Avoid any stems that show signs of yellowing or damage.
Design Tips and Advice: Kale works well as a focal point in both small and large-scale arrangements. Its robust form and vibrant colours make it a popular choice. For larger arrangements, long-stemmed Kale can be used in bunches, creating a striking impact. Ensure that any design accommodates for its substantial size and shape.
Flower Maturity: Choose stems that have well-formed centres and show vibrant colour for maximum maturity and quality.
Expected Vase Life: 10-14 days.
Typical Stem Length: 40-60 cm
Typical Bunch Size: Sold per stem or in bunches of 5.
Floral Preservatives: Use floral preservatives to extend vase life.
Ethylene Sensitivity: Kale is not sensitive to ethylene.
Temperature Requirements: Store at 2-4 °C in a cool room.
Avoiding Potential Problems: To prevent the development of a strong cabbage smell, change the water frequently, and ensure to recut the stems. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves from below the head to maintain a fresh appearance.
Cooling and Cool Rooms: Store Kale in cool rooms at temperatures between 2-4 °C to maintain freshness and prolong vase life.
Hydration and Vase Solutions: Use flower food in the water and change it regularly to keep the Kale hydrated and prolong its vase life.
Care of Ethylene Sensitive Products: Not applicable as Kale is not sensitive to ethylene.