Don’t let the size of the Tronchuda kale’s leaves alarm you. Despite their enormous size—up to 24 inches across—this kale is tender and full of flavor. The flat blue-green leaves resemble a loose head of cabbage, and are delicious in soups. Also known as Portuguese kale, the leaves have more of a cabbage flavor than other kales. The ribs and stems are white and also tasty. This plant is more heat tolerant than other cultivars.

Sun Exposure

• full sun (six to 12 hours)

Soil pH

• 6.0 to 7.5

Hardiness Zones

• zones 3 to 9
• ideal temperature: 45 to 85 degrees F

Spacing

• thin to 2 feet apart
• plant rows 2 feet apart

Moisture

• 1 to 1 1/2 inches per week

Notes

• 80 to 85 days to maturity
• direct sow or seedlings
• cold hardy and heat tolerant
• plant after spring frost and eight weeks before fall frost
• grows up to 2 feet tall, 3 feet wide
• good in soups, salads, and smoothies

Have you ever grown Tronchuda kale? Please tell us about your experiences with Tronchuda kale.