Dinosaur leaves with deep, earthy flavor!
Also known as Tuscan or Dinosaur Kale, Lacinato is a gourmet favorite with long, bumpy blue-green leaves and a rich, slightly sweet taste. It’s a staple in Italian cooking and a must-grow for flavor-loving gardeners.
Variety: Lacinato Kale (Brassica oleracea)
Growth Habit: Upright, cool-season biennial (grown as annual)
Height: 24–36 inches
Flavor Profile: Rich, earthy, and slightly sweet
Color: Dark blue-green, strap-like leaves
Planting Conditions: Full sun; direct sow or transplant
Harvest Timeline: 60–75 days for leaves
Uses: Soups, sautés, kale chips, traditional Italian dishes
Fun Fact: Lacinato kale has been grown in Tuscany for centuries and stars in the classic ribollita soup!
Lacinato kale is the chef’s kale. Its deep flavor and elegant texture make it perfect for hearty dishes, from rustic soups to crispy kale chips. The upright growth makes harvesting a breeze, and the leaves hold up beautifully in the pan. Whether you’re cooking up comfort food or adding a gourmet twist to your greens, this kale brings depth and tradition to the table.
To Full Size
🌞 Choose a Sunny Spot: Full sun and rich, well-drained soil are ideal.
🌱 Sow the Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep, spacing 12 inches apart.
💧 Water Regularly: Keep soil moist, especially during early growth.
🌿 Thin and Maintain: Thin to 18 inches apart for healthy airflow and leaf size.
✂️ Harvest: Pick outer leaves as needed or harvest the whole plant when mature.
