Lacinato ‘Dino’ Kale: Nutrient-Rich Italian Heirloom for Continuous Harvest
Discover the classic Italian ‘Dino’ kale, a nutrient powerhouse with deep blue, long, and narrow leaves. This Lacinato variety, also known as Tuscan kale, reaches maturity in just 35 days, offering a quick turnaround for eager gardeners. Prized for its exceptionally high levels of antioxidant carotenoids, this heirloom vegetable has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, particularly in Tuscany where it originated.
Lacinato kale stands out for its versatility in the kitchen and impressive nutritional profile. The deep blue-green leaves, with their distinctive dinosaur skin-like texture, are not only visually striking but also pack a flavor punch that’s slightly sweeter and more delicate than curly kale varieties. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron, this kale variety supports bone health, boosts energy, and aids in maintaining a robust immune system.
Growing to a height of 24 inches, Lacinato kale thrives when given ample space, with recommended spacing of 24 inches between plants. This spacing allows for optimal air circulation and leaf development. The plant’s unique growth habit enables a continuous harvest throughout the season. By picking leaves from the bottom up, you encourage ongoing production, transforming your kale plants into palm tree-like structures that keep yielding nutritious greens for months.
Growing Success Tips:
- Plant in full sun to partial shade for best results
- Ensure soil is rich in organic matter and well-draining
- Water consistently, providing about 1 inch per week
- Harvest outer leaves regularly to promote continuous growth
Lacinato kale is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners, offering a bountiful harvest with minimal care. Its cold tolerance extends the growing season, allowing for fresh, homegrown greens well into the fall and even winter in some regions. For an extra flavor boost, wait until after the first frost to harvest, as cold temperatures enhance the kale’s natural sweetness.
Product Features
- Maturation Time: 35 days
- Plant Height: 24 inches
- Pot Size: 3.5 inches
- Leaf Type: Long, narrow, deep blue-green
- Spacing: 24 inches between plants
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rich in organic matter
- Watering Needs: Consistent moisture, about 1 inch per week
- Harvest Method: Pick from bottom up for continuous yield
Key Benefits
- Exceptionally high in antioxidant carotenoids
- Versatile for culinary use, from raw salads to cooked dishes
- Continuous harvest throughout the growing season
- Cold-tolerant for extended production into fall and winter
