Couve-nabica Portuguese Rape Kale

(Edible)

(snow and mild frost hardy)

Common Names: Portuguese Kale, Hanover-salad, Rape kale, Siberian kale, Chou a faucher (French), Schnittkohl (German), Couve-nabica (Portuguese)

Classification: Family: Brassicaceae (alt.Cruciferae); Genus: Brassica

General description: A little known plant outside Portugal and very hard to find elsewhere but with large use in portuguese cusine. It is sometimes called Portuguese Kale and belongs to the Colza family. Grows easily and the edible leaves and the greens can be harvested repeatedly from the plant throughout the growing season. Grows to about 50 cm / 2 feet tall.

Mature Height: 50 cm (2 ft.)

Hardiness: Zone 9 (-3.8 °C/25 °F)) and higher. Couve Nabica prefer mild or cool temperatures, the optimal temperatures for this cultivar are between 10 to 20 Cº. Hot and dry climats are unfavorable for its development and taste. It tolerates low temperatures and frosts improve it's flavor;

Sun exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade.

Foliage: Evergreen, with tender leaves of medium to dark green color and the greens. The leaves of the couve-Nabica are arranged in rosette.

Usage: Cultivated mainly for it's leaves and green. The plant is bi-annual but should be cultivated as Annual. The leaves are tasty, rich in Calcium, and have few calories. Also have a high content of vitamins A, complex B and C, potassium and folic acid and the fibers contribute to regulate intestinal functioning. Being very aromatic, Couve-nabica will give a unique flavor to your soups, salads and stews. It can also be used to saute, with garlic and olive oil, replacing the greens. Nabicas also have diuretic, analgesic and laxative properties and should therefore be part of a balanced diet.

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