Crambe
Giant Seakale
Coined from the Greek word for “cabbage,” this Brassica-related genus is relatively small, including about 20 annual and perennial species that bear dense racemes composed of minute flowers atop mostly leafless stems. Our European Crambe selections combine a commanding garden-worthy presence with easy-care sensibility.
As it translates, “cabbage-style, heart-shaped foliage” is accurate but misses the big picture, and we mean big. Handsome, crisp green leaves, each measuring 12 to 14 in. long and wide, form a 2 to 3 ft. mound. A single stem, nearly 3 ft. tall, hosts a giant spray of tiny flowers, a loose haze of filigree in Paleolithic proportions. When cut, the fragrant blossom works like Baby’s Breath. Dynamic as a specimen or background plant, Crambe adds high drama, even humor, to any situation.
Blooms June–July
Size: 3' 0" high x 2' 0" – 3' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 5.
Each $12.50
Mentioned in Thomas Jefferson’s 1809 Garden Book and frequently served for dinner at Britain’s Royal Pavilion during the late 1700s, this evergreen European seaside native is both a culinary and ornamental delight. The textural powdery-blue mound of thick, waxen and ruffled leaves gives way to stout branching stems topped by ample flower heads with myriad small, creamy-white blooms. Flaunting an AGM, a wondrous long-lived persona and savory nut-flavored notes, Sea Kale counts cabbage among its kin, detests root disturbance and favors sun as well as good drainage plus a rich sandy loam. Easily grown Crambe maritima braves poor soil, dry sites and windy coastal conditions.
Blooms June–July
Size: 2-1/2' – 3' 0" high x 2-1/2' wide.
Hardy to zone 5.
