# Thousandhead Kale

Source: https://shop.homegrowngardenschicago.com/product/thousandhead-kale/
Published: 2024-02-25
Updated: 2026-04-01

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## **THOUSANDHEAD KALE (*Brassica oleracea var. acephala*)**

**Transplant | Late April | Annual**

Thousandhead kale is a historic European heirloom known for its extraordinary productivity and impressive plant size. This vigorous variety produces tall plants with abundant blue-green leaves that branch heavily, giving rise to its name — a plant capable of producing what seems like “a thousand heads” of tender greens.

The leaves offer a mild, slightly earthy flavor that becomes sweeter in cooler temperatures. Young leaves are excellent fresh in salads, while mature leaves are perfect for sautéing, soups, and hearty cooked dishes.

Highly resilient and extremely productive, Thousandhead kale provides continuous harvests throughout the growing season, making it a rewarding addition to any kitchen garden.

## Growing Details

**Harvest:** Harvest outer leaves regularly for continuous production\
**Plant Spacing:** 2 ft\
**Sun:** Full sun to partial sun\
**Cold Tolerance:** Extremely frost hardy and thrives in cool spring temperatures

## Garden Companions

**Best planted with:**\
Beets, carrots, onions, garlic, dill

**Benefits:**\
Companion crops attract beneficial insects and help support a balanced garden ecosystem while improving overall plant vigor.

**Avoid planting near:**\
Other brassicas to reduce shared pest pressure and nutrient competition.

## 🐛 Worm Protection — Cabbage Moth Decoy Included

**How it Works**\
Cabbage moths avoid plants that appear “occupied.” The decoy discourages egg-laying and helps reduce cabbage worm damage — a simple, chemical-free way to protect your brassicas.

**💡 Homegrown Gardens Tip**\
Place the decoy near the plant canopy when transplanting to confuse cabbage moths before they begin laying eggs.

## Pro Growing Tips

• Harvest outer leaves frequently to encourage continued growth\
• Cooler temperatures enhance sweetness and flavor\
• Plants can grow very large with fertile soil and consistent watering\
• Excellent for productive kitchen gardens and raised beds

## Health Highlights

**Superfood nutrition**\
Kale provides high levels of vitamins A, C, and K along with powerful antioxidants.

**Supports heart health**\
High fiber content helps support healthy cholesterol levels.

**Bone-strengthening nutrients**\
Rich in vitamin K and calcium for strong bones.

*Pre-order now for hardy, nutrient-rich transplants timed perfectly for early spring planting.*