Brassica oleracea (Acephala Group) 'Rainbow Candy Crush'
A hardy, annual ornamental and edible kale with frilled, dark green outer leaves which contrast against the bright pink leaf growth in the centre. Harvest September through to December
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Pink | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Pink | |||
| Autumn | Green Pink | |||
| Winter | Green Pink |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Clump forming
- Genus
Brassicas can be annual, biennial or perennial plants, most are upright with alternate, often glaucous leaves, long taproots and clusters of cross-shaped, yellow or white flowers. The genus includes a number of species bred to produce food crops, such as cabbages, turnips, mustards and oilseed rape, as well as others grown for their ornamental value
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Prefers well-drained, alkaline soil. Water regularly in dry periods and add a mulch. See kale cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Architectural
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, cabbage whitefly, aphids, flea beetles and slugs and snails
Diseases
May be susceptible to black rot, downy mildew, foot and root rot, grey mould, leaf spot and white blister
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.