Kale, Siberian

Kale, Siberian
(Brassica napus var. pabularia)

Siberian Kale is a cold-hardy heirloom kale prized for its tender, blue-green leaves and exceptional tolerance to frost. Unlike many curly kales, its leaves are broad, slightly ruffled, and mild in flavor. This hardy green thrives in cool weather and can continue producing late into fall and winter, making it a reliable staple for extended harvest gardens.

Key Characteristics

• Extremely Cold Hardy
  Siberian Kale is one of the most frost-tolerant kales available. Leaves become sweeter after exposure to cold weather, allowing harvests well into late fall and even winter in milder climates.
• Tender, Mild Leaves
  The broad, slightly crinkled leaves have a softer texture and milder flavor than many traditional kales. Excellent for salads when young and ideal for sautéing, soups, and steaming when mature.
• Fast Growing & Productive
  Plants establish quickly and produce abundant leaves over a long harvest window. Regular harvesting encourages continued growth and new leaf production.
• Reliable Cool-Season Crop
  Performs best in spring and fall plantings and tolerates fluctuating temperatures. Suitable for succession planting in diverse garden systems.

Product Details

• Botanical Name: Brassica napus var. pabularia
• Native Range: Northern Europe (cultivated worldwide)
• 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: 1.5–2.5 feet
• Bloom Time: April–May (second year if overwintered)
• Bloom Color: Yellow
• Days to Maturity: ~50–65 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 for strong leaf production. Harvest outer leaves regularly to extend the harvest season. In permaculture systems, plant kale in cool-season beds or rotate with legumes to help maintain soil fertility.

Siberian Kale offers exceptional cold tolerance, mild flavor, and dependable harvests—an excellent green for gardeners seeking extended seasonal production.