Kale

Ornamental kales and cabbages have ancient origins that date back at least 4,000 years. Historically, the propagation of wild members of kale and cabbage (in the Brassica oleracea species) began in the Mediterranean regions; Greeks and Romans used the plants as a food source. They were also seen in herbal medicines and made into poultices that could disinfect wounds.

All ornamental kale and cabbage plants are all technically types of kale (comprising the Acephala group of B. oleracea). More specifically, ornamental kale features serrated or ruffled leaves, while ornamental cabbage has broad, smooth and rounded leaves. Ornamental cabbage leaves also grow in heads (like the cabbage we eat), whereas ornamental kale leaves grow in tight rosettes.

Both ornamental kale and cabbage foliage are cultivated in brilliant colors, which, along with their texture, make them well-loved in the floral industry.