Sea Kale (Crambe maritima)

Family: Brassicaceae or Cruciferae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Crambe maritima is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant almost nutty flavour and go well in a mixed salad. — Young leaves - raw or cooked like spinach.; They have a pleasant almost nutty flavour and go well in a mixed salad.; They also make a very pleasant cooked vegetable.; Older leaves develop a bitterness and are not so pleasant.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal sands, shingle, rocks and cliffs near the sea, often on the drift line. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)