Crambe cordifolia
greater sea kale
An herbaceous perennial to 1.8m in height, with bold, dark green, lobed leaves to 30cm in width, and branched sprays of small, scented white flowers
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Crambe are robust annuals and perennials with large, simple or divided leaves and racemes or large panicles of small, fragrant white flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Caucasus
How to grow
Cultivation
Ideally grow in a deep, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun although it will tolerate poor soil and partial shade. Provide shelter from strong winds.
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or autumn or propagate by division in early spring or take root cuttings in winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Coastal
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down to ground level in autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to flea beetles, slugs and caterpillars
Diseases
May suffer from club root
Get involved
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