MergKool 'Jersey Tree' / 'Walking Stick Cabbage' / 'Asturian'

A rarity in Northern Europe, but a very well-known household cabbage around the Mediterranean. It was described early on in the Vendée as a source for walking sticks, and from 1827, its cultivation became popular in England. In a mild winter, and certainly in southern countries, the stem of this cabbage can grow up to 6 m in height! In our climate, the plant grows to 2m in 2 years! To stimulate length growth, the leaves must be removed (and eaten) from the bottom. For a completely different effect: top a plant and feast on the buttery soft shoots that then emerge. The preparation of traditional soups with this cabbage, which in Spain, for example, is called "Caldo Gallego", is well-known.

Marrowstem kale is a group name for varieties related to collard greens (called "Kale" in English) that have a sturdy stem. Its origin in Europe dates back to Roman times. Even then, both 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 stem, also called tree cabbage or Tree Collard. Prune away the flowers for good condition and years of cabbage enjoyment!

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