Colewort
crambe cordifolia
Also known as: ["Heartleaf Crambe","Sea Kale"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and frothy, white flower plumes.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Crambe |
| Botanical Name: | Crambe cordifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed with ample space for spreading
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; a mix of loam, compost, and sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; provide shade during peak summer hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter for better fertility.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use a mix of peat and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage; focus on removing older stems to promote new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts just above buds.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with additional drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; provides fresh soil and room for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrambe cordifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCrambe cordifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCrambe cordifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Crambe cordifolia grow?
A: It can reach up to 6 feet in height when mature.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: Due to its size, it is best planted in the ground rather than in containers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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