Dino Kale Seeds by Hudson Valley Seed Company

The black-green foliage of this plant is nearly reptilian: deeply hued, rippled, and tough. Despite its rough appearance, it is extremely sweet and tender. It is a favorite of gardeners worldwide, who have given it many names: Lacinato, Cavolo Nero, Tuscan Kale, Palm Tree Kale, and Dinosaur Kale. A consistent, long-season garden companion.

While it isn't quite as cold hardy as its kale cousins, it usually survives most of the winter under a blanket of row cover and snow.

Use mature leaves in salads if marinated in an acidic dressing. The flavor is great in pasta dishes, or alone with garlic and olive oil.

Direct sow Dino Kale about a month before last frost. Or, sow under protection 8 weeks earlier, then transplant about a month before last frost. For a young, tender fall crop, sow 3-4 months before first fall frost. Avoid planting at the edge of the garden, as slugs love kale and will creep in for nightly dining. Harvest a handful of individual outer leaves from each plant; mature plants will be ready for another harvest in a few days.