Comparison of With Other Varieties
Kale, a member of the cabbage family, is a highly nutritious leafy green vegetable that has gained popularity in recent years due to its health benefits and versatility in cooking. Among the various kale varieties, thousand head kale stands out for its unique characteristics and interesting history.
Thousand head kale, also known as walking stick kale or Jersey kale, is a distinct variety that differs from other kale varieties in several ways. Firstly, it is characterized by its exceptionally tall and sturdy stalks, which can reach a height of up to 10 feet. This makes it an excellent ornamental plant for gardens, as it creates a striking visual display with its towering presence. In addition, the leaves of thousand head kale are dark green, thick, and slightly crinkled, giving it a robust texture and flavor.
From a culinary perspective, thousand head kale can be used in multiple ways. Its tender young leaves are delicious when used raw in salads, providing a hearty crunch and a slightly bitter flavor. When cooked, the leaves mellow out and develop a sweeter taste. This versatility allows thousand head kale to be used in a wide range of recipes, such as stir-fries, soups, stews, and even as a substitute for spinach in various dishes.
Thousand head kale has an interesting history that can be traced back to the 19th century. It was first discovered and cultivated in the Channel Islands, particularly on the island of Jersey. The name "thousand head" refers to the plant's ability to grow numerous smaller heads along the main stalk, giving the impression of multiple individual plants. This unique growth habit makes it an excellent space-saving option for gardeners, as it allows them to harvest multiple kale heads from a single plant.
In terms of availability, thousand head kale can be somewhat harder to find compared to more common kale varieties. However, it is often available at specialty nurseries, farmers markets, and online seed catalogs. Additionally, once you have established a patch of thousand head kale in your garden, you can easily propagate it by saving and planting the seeds from mature plants.
To sum up, thousand head kale is a distinctive variety of kale that stands out for its tall stalks, dark green leaves, and unique ability to produce multiple heads of kale along a single plant. Its ornamental value, versatility in cooking, and interesting history make it a desirable addition to any garden. While it may take some effort to find seeds or plants, the rewards of growing and enjoying thousand head kale will undoubtedly be worth it for gardening enthusiasts and kale lovers alike.