Red Russian Kale

All our seeds are 100% Canadian Grown, Processed-by-Hand, Non-GMO, Certified Organic, and Open Pollinated. From our 10-acre Seed Farm in Metchosin, BC since 2004.

Quick Notes

• Ornamental green leaves with purple stems and mauve veins
• Sweet, tender flavour in cool weather
• High in vitamins and minerals
• Biennial crop with edible flowerheads in year two
• Hardy and productive throughout winter

About Red Russian Kale
Red Russian Kale is a visually striking and nutrient-dense variety well suited to both ornamental and edible gardens. Its flat green leaves with mauve-purple veins grow from vibrant purple stems, providing beauty as well as harvest. Known for its tender texture and sweet flavour, particularly in cool temperatures, this kale variety can be harvested from early spring through late fall, and even into winter. In its second year, the plant bolts and produces flowerheads similar to broccoli, which are also delicious.

Where Can You Grow Red Russian Kale?
Ideal for Zones 3–9, Red Russian Kale prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. It thrives in rich, well-drained soil with regular watering. It can be grown in rows, raised beds, or containers and is especially productive in cool coastal climates.

History and Historical Uses
Originally hailing from Siberia and brought to North America by Russian traders in the 19th century, Red Russian Kale has become a popular staple for gardeners and chefs alike. Its resilience and cold-hardiness made it an early favourite among homesteaders, and today it is widely grown for its nutritional value and ornamental beauty.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in spring or fall; overwintering is easy in mild climates.
Zones 5-7: Sow in early spring or late summer for fall harvest; mulching helps with winter survival.
Zones 3-4: Start indoors or sow outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked; cold frames extend the season.

How to Grow and Harvest Red Russian Kale
Planting: Sow seeds 1cm (½in) deep, spaced 30cm (12in) apart in rows 45cm (18in) apart.
Watering: Keep soil moist for tender leaves; water deeply in dry weather.
Harvesting: Begin harvesting baby leaves as soon as 5-7cm (2-3in) long; cut mature leaves from the outside in.
Maintenance: Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; remove yellowing leaves for best growth.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Select Best Plants: Choose healthy plants that have overwintered well.
Allow to Flower: In the second year, let plants bolt and produce seed pods.
Harvest Seeds: Collect seed pods when dry and brown on the plant.
Clean and Store: Dry thoroughly and store seeds in a cool, dark place for up to 4 years.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)