Crambe Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 22nd Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Crambe plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Sea Kale, Colewort, Crambe, & Giant Kale: Cultivation & Garden Use

Crambe are very large plants that can reach over two metres in height.

They are generally hardy perennials, but can also come as hardy annuals or hardy bulbs.

They are very woody in nature and bloom with white flowers in the summer.

Common names for Crambe include Colewort and Seakale.

Crambe maritima - Sea kale by Dag Endresen; Creative commons.

Crambe maritima flower by Phill Sellens.

How to Grow Colewort and other Crambe Species

It is best to sow Crambe seeds outside in their final location at a spacing of 60 cm to a metre apart.

The seeds and bulbs should be sown at a depth of about 1cm into a partially shaded or sunny area of the garden that has good drainage. They prefer a fertile soil with an alkaline pH.

The timing of sowing of Crambe varies depending upon the nature of the plant. Annuals should be planted before the last frost of spring; perennials before it (early spring) and bulbs at the end of summer.

If you first plan to grow Colewort and other Crambe species indoors from seed then they should be sown in peat pots about 10 weeks before they are due to be transplanted after the last frost of spring (annuals/perennials) or the autumn (bulbs/perennials).

However given the variation of germination time (three weeks to six months) it is usually best to sow the seeds outdoors.

Caring for Crambe in the Garden

It will take at least three years until you see flowers from your perennial Crambe plants.

Plants should be cut back to the ground in the autumn, and regularly treated with insecticide. If you require more plants then cuttings can be taken from the root in the spring.

Common Questions

How many members does the Crambe genus have?

The Crambe genus consists of about 20-35 species.

Do members of Crambe make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Crambe species, especially Sea Kale, can make unique additions to gardens with their large, glossy foliage and white flowers.

Which Crambe species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most commonly grown species is Crambe maritima, or Sea Kale, appreciated for its edible leaves and showy flower clusters.

Are members of the Crambe plant genus fragrant?

Crambe maritima, or Sea Kale, produces fragrant flowers that can add a sweet scent to your garden.

What is the perfect location to grow Crambe?

Crambe plants do well in full sun and well-drained soil. They're great for sunny borders or vegetable gardens.

Is Crambe invasive in the USA?

Presently, Crambe is not considered invasive in the USA.

How do I remove Crambe plants from my garden?

Crambe plants can be removed by digging up the plants and ensuring all root fragments are removed to prevent regrowth.

Summary

The Crambe genus, part of the Brassicaceae family, is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. The most known species, Crambe maritima, also known as sea kale, is a perennial plant recognized for its large, bluish-green leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in early summer.

To grow Crambe, plant them in a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. They can be grown from seeds, divisions, or root cuttings. Regular watering is necessary. They are often used in borders or vegetable gardens for their attractive foliage, fragrant blooms, and edible leaves.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Crambe plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ Brassicaceae growing guides: How to grow Sweet Alyssum and Iberis plants.