Brassica oleracea 'Frise Rouge' (Kale)

Frise Rouge is a striking French heirloom kale that brings deep, moody color and excellent flavor to the fall and winter garden. The curly leaves are dark and glossy, marked by deep purple stems and veins that run through the foliage in bold contrast. Plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall and develop that classic full-bodied curly kale form, with each leaf deeply ruffled and richly pigmented.

The flavor is robust and satisfying, with the characteristic kale earthiness mellowing into something sweeter after a few frosts work their magic on the leaves. Young leaves work well raw in hearty salads dressed with something punchy, like lemon and good olive oil. Mature leaves are excellent braised, massaged into grain bowls, or used in long-cooked soups and stews.

As an open-pollinated heirloom, Frise Rouge carries the kind of flavor and garden character that has kept it in cultivation for generations. It is cold hardy, productive through the rainy Oregon coast season, and beautiful enough to cut for the table with pride.