Kale Black Magic

Plant Information for Black Magic Kale

1. Scientific Name: Brassica oleracea var. lacinato
2. Common Name: Black Magic Kale, Dinosaur Kale
3. Family: Brassicaceae
4. Plant Type: Annual
5. Native To: Mediterranean region; originally bred in Italy​.
6. Height: 24-36 inches (60-90 cm)
7. Spread: 12-24 inches (30-60 cm)​.
8. Days to Maturity: Approximately 65 days from seeding​.
9. Foliage Color: Deep blue-green with savoy (bumpy) texture​.

Growing and Care Instructions for Black Magic Kale

1. Sowing Time: Direct sow in spring or fall; or start indoors and transplant​.
2. Light Requirements: Grows best in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates​
3. Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5​
4. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water at the base to avoid leaf issues​
5. Spacing: Space plants 12-24 inches apart for proper airflow and to prevent disease​.
6. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and periodically during the growing season for healthy, vigorous growth.
7. Pest Management: Use row covers to protect from pests like aphids and whiteflies, or spray with water to dislodge them.
8. Cold Tolerance: This kale performs exceptionally well in cooler climates and can even survive light frosts, which sweeten its flavor​.
9. Harvesting: Begin harvesting outer leaves when they reach 6-8 inches in length; continue to harvest as new leaves grow​.
10. Companion Planting: Plant alongside flowers like nasturtium and alyssum to attract beneficial insects​.