Sea-kale
Sea-kale in flower with a Sea Radish backdrop
6 stamens and capitate stigma
Sea-kale in pod
Pods and leaves
Pods
Cabbage-like leaves
Crambe maritima
Brassicaceae
May to August
It is found all round the coast except for the Northeast
See the BSBI distribution map for Sea-kale
It grows mainly on shingle and boulder beaches and cliffs, but
less frequently on sandy beaches.
Sea-kale is a native, perennial herb, growing in large clumps that
can be several metres across and up to 75cm tall.
Flowers are in large flowerheads.
Individual flowers are up to 16mm across, with 4 white petals and
a prominent stigma.
There are 6 stamens, the inner ones having curved appendages.
The leaves are grey, fleshy and up to 30cm long.
The stems are woody at the base.
The main root stock is fleshy and produces underground stolons,
which enable the plant to form clumps.
It can be cooked and eaten and is the origin of the vegetable.
Previous page: Sea Arrowgrass
Next page: Sea-milkwort
Sea-kale in flower with a Sea Radish backdrop
6 stamens and capitate stigma
Sea-kale in pod
Pods and leaves
Pods
Cabbage-like leaves
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