The lifespan of ornamental kale is often a point of confusion for many gardeners. While it is commonly referred to as an annual, botanically speaking, it is actually a biennial plant. This means that its life cycle occurs over two years.
In the first year, ornamental kale grows from seed and forms a rosette of colorful and attractive leaves. These leaves can vary in color, with shades of pink, purple, white, and green being common. The foliage of ornamental kale is often highly textured and ruffled, adding a unique and striking element to garden beds and containers.
During the first year, the primary focus of the plant is to develop a strong root system and establish itself in the garden. It will continue to grow and produce leaves throughout the growing season. Ornamental kale is quite cold-tolerant and can withstand frost, making it an excellent choice for fall and winter gardening.
In the second year of its life cycle, ornamental kale will begin to bolt and produce flower stalks. The plant will redirect its energy towards flowering and producing seeds. The flowers of ornamental kale are typically yellow or white and are not particularly showy. Once the plant has completed its flowering and seed production, it will begin to decline and eventually die.
It is worth noting that many gardeners choose to treat ornamental kale as an annual by removing it from the garden after the first year. This is because the plants can become leggy and unattractive as they enter the second year of their life cycle. Additionally, the foliage may lose some of its vibrant coloration as the plants age.
If you do choose to keep ornamental kale for a second year, it is important to note that the roots of the plant are considered poisonous. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when handling the plant or working around its root system.
In terms of culinary use, the leaves of ornamental kale are edible and can be prepared in a variety of ways. They can be blanched, steamed, stir-fried, or added to soups. The colorful leaves can add a pop of color and flavor to dishes. However, it is important to ensure that you are using culinary varieties of kale and not ornamental varieties, as the latter may have been treated with chemicals that are not safe for consumption.
The lifespan of ornamental kale spans two years, with the plant focusing on leaf production in the first year and bolting and seed production in the second year. Whether you choose to keep ornamental kale for a second year or treat it as an annual, it can be a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden.
