How to Grow Black Cabbage
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Black Cabbage
Brassica oleracea var. acephala
vegetableBlack cabbage, also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale, is a dark leafy cruciferous vegetable with deeply textured, blue-green to black crinkled leaves. It has a slightly sweeter, more tender flavor than regular kale and is packed with nutrients. This heirloom variety is increasingly popular in modern cooking and is highly productive in cool-season gardens.
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Example Black Cabbage timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black Cabbage
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Black Cabbage
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Black Cabbage dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers cooler weather and can tolerate frost
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Seedling
2-3 weeksYoung plants with 2-4 true leaves, pale green color, delicate structure
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart if direct seeding. Protect from slugs.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops robust root system and multiple leaves. Leaves begin showing characteristic dark color and crinkled texture.
Maintain consistent watering. Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
Leaf Development
3-4 weeksPlant forms dense rosette of deeply textured, dark blue-green to black leaves. Plant reaches 12-18 inches tall.
Continue regular watering and feeding. Remove any yellowing or damaged outer leaves. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Maturity & Harvest Ready
Ongoing (4-6+ weeks)Leaves reach full size and texture, developing maximum color and flavor. Plant is fully established and productive.
Begin harvesting outer leaves from bottom. Plant will continue producing new leaves if harvested properly. Flavor improves after frost exposure.
Extended Production
Throughout seasonMature plant continues producing new leaves throughout the season. In cool climates, production can extend into winter.
Harvest regularly to encourage continued leaf production. Provide light feeding every 4-6 weeks. Ensure adequate water during dry periods.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick caterpillars; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray; row covers on young plants; encourage parasitic wasps
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Row covers for seedlings; neem oil or spinosad spray; diatomaceous earth; reflective mulch; encourage beneficial insects
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; ladybug introduction; reflective mulch
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Handpick; Bt spray; row covers; encourage parasitic wasps; netting to exclude butterflies
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and
Hand removal; beer traps; copper tape barriers; diatomaceous earth; encourage natural predators like ground beetles
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; strong water spray; reflective mulch
Uses
Nutritious Leafy Green
CulinaryBlack cabbage is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like calcium and iron. It can be eaten raw in salads, steamed, sautéed, massaged with oil for kale chips, or added to soups and stews. [source]
Anti-inflammatory and Detoxifying
MedicinalBlack cabbage contains glucosinolates and sulforaphane compounds with potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used in folk medicine for digestive health and to support the immune system. [source]
Pesto and Traditional Dishes
CulinaryItalian cuisine traditionally uses Lacinato kale in dishes like pasta e fagioli and minestrone. Leaves can be made into pesto or added to grain bowls for a nutrient-dense meal. [source]
Ornamental Edible Garden Plant
HouseholdThe striking dark, textured foliage makes black cabbage attractive in ornamental gardens and decorative vegetable beds. Often used in landscape design for visual interest. [source]
Pollinator and Beneficial Insect Support
WildlifeWhen allowed to bolt, black cabbage produces small yellow flowers that attract pollinators and beneficial insects. The plant supports ecosystem health in the garden. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 8-10 inches tall by pinching or cutting them off at the base. Leave inner leaves to continue growing. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production. Flavor becomes sweeter and more tender after exposure to frost. Leaves are most tender in the morning. Can continue harvesting throughout the season as new leaves develop. In cool climates, harvest can extend into winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black cabbage is also called 'dinosaur kale' because its deeply textured, bumpy leaves resemble dinosaur skin, and it's an heirloom variety originally from Tuscany, Italy.
- 🌱 Unlike regular cabbage that forms tight heads, black cabbage grows as a loose leafy plant similar to kale, making it continuously harvestable throughout the season.
- 🌱 The flavor and nutritional content actually improve after frost exposure due to increased sugar content and glucosinolate compounds, making it a prime cool-season crop.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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