How to Grow Dinosaur Kale
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Dinosaur Kale
Brassica oleracea var. lacinato
vegetableDinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale, is a dark leafy green vegetable with deeply textured, bumpy leaves that resemble dinosaur skin. This cold-hardy brassica is highly nutritious, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and has a slightly sweeter, more tender flavor than curly kale. It's a favorite among gardeners for its productivity, attractive appearance, and culinary versatility.
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Example Dinosaur Kale timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dinosaur Kale
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 Dinosaur Kale
Around Jun 11≈ 55 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Dinosaur Kale dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; prefers cooler climates and tolerates frost well
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Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall, tender leaves with true leaves emerging; plant is delicate and low-growing
Keep soil consistently moist. Provide bright light if growing indoors. Thin seedlings to proper spacing when they have 2-3 true leaves.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops multiple leaves; stems thicken and the characteristic bumpy, textured leaf surface becomes more pronounced
Water regularly and deeply. Begin fertilizing every 2-3 weeks with nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Leaf Development
2-3 weeksLeaves become larger and more deeply textured; the plant forms a rosette of dark green, dinosaur-skin-like foliage
Continue consistent watering and fertilizing. Monitor for pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Remove any yellowing or damaged lower leaves.
Mature Growth & Harvesting
4-8+ weeksPlant reaches full size with abundant harvestable leaves; cooler weather deepens flavor and sweetness
Begin harvesting outer leaves when plant is 12+ inches tall. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production. Kale improves in flavor after frost.
Overwintering (in cold zones)
3-4 monthsPlant survives freezing temperatures and continues growing slowly; leaves become sweeter and more tender
In zones 3-6, mulch heavily around base. In milder zones, continue harvesting through winter. Plant can produce into spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers on young plants; hand-pick caterpillars; spray with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt); neem oil
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Strong spray of water to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; attract ladybugs with alyssum or yarrow
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Row covers; diatomaceous earth; neem oil; reflective mulches
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Hand-pick; Bt spray; row covers; encourage parasitic wasps
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and
Beer traps; copper tape barriers; hand-pick at night; encourage ground beetles
Uses
Raw in salads and smoothies
CulinaryDinosaur kale's tender texture and mild flavor make it excellent for raw consumption in salads, smoothies, and juices. It's less bitter than curly kale and becomes sweeter after frost. [source]
Sautéed and cooked dishes
CulinaryThe leaves hold their shape and texture well when cooked, making them ideal for sautéing with garlic, adding to soups, braising, or making into chips. [source]
Nutritional powerhouse
MedicinalDinosaur kale is exceptionally high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants. Regular consumption supports bone health, immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory benefits. [source]
Pesto and sauces
CulinaryThe leaves can be blended into creamy pesto, smoothie bowls, and sauces as a nutritious alternative to basil. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeWhen kale is allowed to bolt and flower, it produces attractive yellow blooms that attract bees and other pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity. [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 when plant is 12+ inches tall by picking outer leaves from the base, leaving the center to continue growing. Harvest in the morning for best flavor. Regular harvesting encourages more leaf production. Leaves are sweetest after a frost. Can harvest for 2-3+ months by continuous outer-leaf picking, or cut entire plant at the base for one large harvest.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dinosaur kale gets its common name from its deeply textured, bumpy leaves that resemble dinosaur skin; it's also called Tuscan or Lacinato kale and is a staple in Italian cuisine.
- 🌱 Kale's flavor actually improves significantly after frost—cold temperatures convert starches into sugars, making the leaves sweeter and more tender than summer-grown kale.
- 🌱 A single mature dinosaur kale plant can produce harvestable leaves for 2-3 months or longer through successive picking, making it one of the most productive vegetables for continuous harvest.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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