Ornamental Cabbage (Brassica oleracea): Colorful Rosettes for Fall and Winter

Ornamental cabbage (Brassica oleracea) forms rosettes of cabbage foliage grown as annuals for fall and winter interest. Color intensifies in cooler temperatures (below 50°F). Good for bedding and containers.

Noteworthy Characteristics: Colorful foliage. Hardy, late season interest.

Care: Fertile soil in full sun.

Propagation: Sow seed in the garden in spring or in a cold frame in early spring.

Problems: Leaf miners, caterpillars, aphids, harlequin bugs, root maggots, nematodes, cabbage white butterfly, flea beetles. Black leg, white rust, black leaf spot, powdery and downy mildews, damping off, white mold, club root, and root knot nematodes. Cool weather eliminates most of these problems.

Overview

• Height: 1 ft. to 3 ft.
• Spread: 1 ft. to 3 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate Grower
• Light: Full Sun Only
• Moisture: Medium Moisture
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Showy Foliage
• Foliage Color: Colorful/Burgundy
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Container
• Seasonal Interest: Fall Interest
• Tolerance: Frost Tolerant
• Type: Annuals