Kale, Madeley

Kale, Madeley
(Brassica oleracea var. acephala)

Madeley Kale is a traditional heirloom kale known for its tender leaves, steady production, and excellent cold tolerance. Producing abundant, slightly crinkled green leaves on upright plants, this variety is valued for its mild flavor and versatility in the kitchen. A dependable cool-season crop, Madeley performs well in both spring and fall gardens.

Key Characteristics

• Tender, Mild Kale Flavor
  Leaves are tender with a mild, pleasant taste that works well both raw and cooked. Excellent for fresh salads when young and ideal for sautéing, soups, and steaming as leaves mature.
• Cold Hardy & Frost Sweetened
  Like many traditional kales, Madeley becomes sweeter after exposure to light frost. This makes it especially valuable for fall and early winter harvests.
• Productive Upright Plants
  Plants grow upright and produce a steady supply of harvestable leaves over a long season. Harvesting outer leaves encourages continued growth and extended production.
• Reliable Cool-Season Performer
  Thrives in cooler temperatures and performs best in spring and fall plantings. Consistent moisture and fertile soil encourage vigorous leaf growth.

Product Details

• Botanical Name: Brassica oleracea var. acephala
• Native Range: Mediterranean (widely cultivated)
• Plant Life Cycle: Biennial grown as an annual
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium to medium-wet, fertile, well-drained
• Mature Height: 2–3 feet
• Bloom Time: April–May (second year if overwintered)
• Bloom Color: Yellow
• Days to Maturity: ~60–70 days
• USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as annual in zones 3–10; overwintering possible in zones 7–10

Direct sow in early spring or late summer for fall harvest. Maintain fertile soil and consistent moisture to encourage strong leaf production. Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous growth. In permaculture systems, rotate kale with legumes or integrate into cool-season garden beds for extended seasonal harvests.

Madeley Kale provides dependable yields, mild flavor, and cold resilience—an excellent leafy green for productive kitchen gardens.