SoCal Home Gardening

Comparison of With Other Varieties

When it comes to the variety of Collard Greens, one unique option is the savoyed greens variety. Savoyed greens are different from other Collard Greens varieties primarily in their appearance and texture. While traditional Collard Greens have flat, smooth leaves, savoyed greens have leaves that are crinkled and have a wrinkled or puckered appearance. This texture gives them a more ornamental and decorative look.

One of the advantages of savoyed greens is that their crinkled leaves help them retain moisture better than flat leaf varieties. This means that they are less likely to wilt or dry out, making them a great choice for gardeners in drier climates or those who may not be able to water their plants regularly. The crinkled texture also adds a unique and interesting element to the garden, as well as to culinary presentations.

In terms of taste, savoyed greens are similar to other Collard Greens varieties. They have a mild, slightly bitter flavor that is often compared to spinach or kale. They are versatile in the kitchen and can be cooked or used in a variety of recipes, such as stews, soups, stir-fries, or simply sautéed with some garlic and olive oil.

The history of savoyed greens is not very well-documented, but it is believed that the crinkled leaf variety originated from traditional flat leaf Collard Greens. The genetic mutation that caused the leaves to develop a wrinkled appearance resulted in the creation of the savoyed greens variety. Over time, this variety gained popularity due to its attractive aesthetics and improved water retention properties.

Savoyed greens can be found in some specialty or heirloom seed catalogs, as well as through online seed suppliers. It may be less commonly available in local garden centers or nurseries, but it's worth checking with them as well. Additionally, joining online gardening forums or communities can provide a platform for gardeners who may have saved seeds from previous seasons and are willing to share or trade them.

In summary, savoyed greens are a unique variety of Collard Greens with wrinkled leaves, making them both visually appealing and functional for better moisture retention. They have a similar taste to other Collard Greens varieties and can be used in a variety of recipes. While they might be slightly harder to find compared to more common varieties, they can be purchased through specialty seed catalogs or online suppliers. So, if you're looking to add some interesting texture and variety to your vegetable garden, savoyed greens are definitely worth considering.