Sea kale

crambe maritima

Also known as: ["Orache","Sea colewort"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Crambe Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A hardy perennial plant native to coastal regions of Europe, known for its large, succulent leaves and edible shoots.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Crambe
Botanical Name: Crambe maritima

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: coastal gardens or inland gardens with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ensure good air circulation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5).

Ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil; enrich with organic matter.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F/10–24°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop before winter.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or root division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Collect seeds or divide roots.
  2. Plant in medium.
  3. Keep moist.
  4. Provide warmth.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix with sand or perlite.

Hormone

Not typically required for seeds; optional for root division.

Timeline

Seeds: 2–4 weeks to germinate; root division: immediate establishment.

Tools Needed

Pruners, trowel, pots, rooting medium.

Quick Tips

Sow seeds shallowly; divide roots carefully; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back dead stems; thin overcrowded growth; shape as desired.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; cut dead growth; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Crambe maritima may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Crambe maritima is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Crambe maritima may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Crambe maritima due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are sensitive to gastrointestinal irritants, and ingestion of Crambe maritima may lead to mild digestive upset. The glucosinolates and erucic acid content can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is unlikely with small exposures.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected or symptoms appear.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Crambe maritima. The glucosinolates present can irritate the digestive tract, while erucic acid may pose a theoretical risk if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if they persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Crambe maritima contains glucosinolates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's tissues also contain erucic acid, which in high concentrations may have adverse effects on heart health, though typical consumption levels are unlikely to pose significant risk.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming large quantities of raw plant parts. Cook thoroughly if used in culinary applications to reduce potential toxicity.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Sea kale edible?

A: Yes, the young shoots and leaves of Sea kale are edible and have been used in culinary dishes.

Q: Does Sea kale attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: Is Sea kale drought tolerant?

A: Yes, it is adapted to coastal conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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