Marrow Cabbage 'Astera'

For stamppot and as green manure... Around 1930, this cabbage became popular and during World War II, it was embraced as an easy-to-grow main or stubble crop (sown between the stubble of the main crop as a subsequent crop). At that time (and still applicable), Marrowstem Kale was sown after potatoes, peas, or grain. Farmers sow with a precision seed drill, but pre-sowing and transplanting yields more. The plants produce a huge amount of leaves and strong stems, which are first and foremost a welcome feed supplement for livestock. Try making a stamppot from the (young) leaves; it's not bad at all!

Marrowstem Kale is a group name for kale-related species (called “Kale” in English) that have a sturdy stem. Its origin in Europe dates back to Roman times. Even then, humans and animals used this fertile cabbage. The leaves or young shoots (precursors to Brussels sprouts) are picked, and the nutritious stems were/are eaten by livestock. Growth is usually fast, and the plants overwinter well. This results in a cabbage on a stalk, also known as tree kale or Tree Collard. Prune the flowers for good condition and years of cabbage enjoyment!

Names:
Latin: Brassica oleracea, or Brassica oleracea Acephala Group var. Arborescens
Dutch: Mergkool
Also: Boomkool
English: Fodder Kale, Marrowstem Kale, Tree Collard