Purple Kale Plant Size: Get the Right Size for You

Introduction

If you are a gardening enthusiast looking to add a pop of color and nutrition to your garden, purple kale is an excellent choice. Not only is it visually appealing with its vibrant purple leaves, but it is also packed with nutrients and easy to grow. However, before you start planting purple kale, it’s important to understand the different sizes that this plant can grow to. This article will guide you through the various sizes of purple kale plants and help you choose the right size for your garden.

Small Varieties

Small-sized purple kale varieties are perfect for container gardening or for those with limited space. These compact plants have a height of around 12-18 inches and a spread of about 10-12 inches. Some popular small-sized purple kale varieties include:

Redbor: This variety features deeply curled leaves that are a dark purple-red color. It has a compact growth habit, making it ideal for small gardens or containers.
Dwarf Blue Curled Vates: As the name suggests, this variety has a dwarf growth habit with tightly curled blue-green leaves. It is not only visually appealing but also has a delicious flavor.
Scarlet: Scarlet kale is known for its attractive frilly leaves that range from deep red to purple. It is a compact variety that grows well in containers or small garden spaces.

Medium Varieties

Medium-sized purple kale plants offer a balance between space efficiency and yield. With a height ranging from 18-24 inches and a spread of around 12-18 inches, these varieties are suitable for both small and medium-sized gardens. Some popular medium-sized purple kale varieties include:

Red Russian: Red Russian kale is known for its tender, flat, and slightly wrinkled leaves with a purplish-red hue. It has a slightly more upright growth habit compared to smaller varieties, making it a good option for gardeners looking for a bit more volume.
Nero Di Toscana: Also known as Tuscan kale or dinosaur kale, this variety has long, narrow leaves with a beautiful blue-green color. It has a slightly taller growth habit compared to other medium-sized varieties and is highly nutritious.
Red Ursa: Red Ursa kale has ruffled, dark purple leaves that are not only visually striking but also packed with antioxidants. It grows to a medium height and is suitable for both fresh consumption and cooking.

Large Varieties

If you have ample space in your garden and want to maximize your yield, large-sized purple kale varieties are the way to go. These plants can reach a height of up to 3 feet and have a spread of around 18-24 inches. Some popular large-sized purple kale varieties include:

Winterbor: Winterbor kale is a cold-hardy variety with deeply curled, frilly leaves that turn a rich purple color in cooler temperatures. It has a robust growth habit and is known for its excellent flavor.
Redbor Hybrid: This hybrid variety combines the visual appeal of red-purple leaves with the vigorous growth of larger kale plants. It produces an abundance of leaves that are perfect for salads or cooked dishes.
Black Magic: As the name suggests, Black Magic kale features glossy, dark purple leaves that are almost black. It has a tall growth habit and adds a dramatic touch to any garden bed or landscape.

Choosing the Right Size

When deciding on the size of your purple kale plants, there are a few factors to consider:

Available Space: Assess the available space in your garden or container. If you have limited space, opt for small or medium-sized varieties. If space is not an issue, you can go for larger varieties to maximize your yield.
Yield Requirements: Consider how much kale you want to harvest. If you are looking for a smaller yield for personal consumption, small or medium-sized plants should suffice. However, if you plan to share or sell your harvest, larger varieties would be a better choice.
Aesthetic Preference: Think about the visual impact you want to create in your garden. If you prefer a more compact and visually appealing arrangement, smaller varieties can be a great choice. On the other hand, if you want to make a bold statement with tall, vibrant purple kale plants, larger varieties will fit the bill.

Conclusion

Purple kale is not only a nutritious addition to your diet but also an attractive plant for your garden. By understanding the different sizes of purple kale plants and considering factors such as available space, yield requirements, and aesthetic preferences, you can select the right size for your needs. Whether you choose small, medium, or large varieties, purple kale will surely bring a burst of color and flavor to your garden. Happy gardening!