Walking Stick Cabbage: Unusual Edible Ornamental Now in Season
Gardeners, take note: the Walking Stick Cabbage, an unusual and striking edible ornamental, is now in season. Native to the Channel Islands, this plant offers more than just visual appeal; it's a short-lived perennial that provides both food and a unique gardening challenge.
To cultivate this plant, start seeds indoors about five weeks before the last frost. Each plant needs ample space, at least 40 inches (102 cm) on each side. Once transplanted, provide young plants with 2 inches (5 cm) of water immediately and another 2 inches (5 cm) per week during the growing season.
As the plant grows taller, stake it for support. The stalk can reach up to 10 feet (3 m) in a single season, producing cabbage-type leaves at the top. These leaves are edible, but the thick stem should not be consumed. However, once the season ends, the stem can be dried and used as a walking stick, giving the plant its unique name.
Walking Stick Cabbage prefers neutral soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7, with excellent drainage. Amend the soil with organic compost for best results. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 and above, but it's grown as an annual in cooler regions.
Despite its name, Walking Stick Kohlkraut, or Walking Stick Chard, doesn't appear to be a widely recognized botanical name. It might refer to a specific type of cabbage or Swiss chard known for its unique characteristics or uses. Further research is needed to determine the exact origin and traditional uses of this plant.
The Walking Stick Cabbage is a fascinating addition to any garden. Not only does it provide a unique visual spectacle, but it also offers a sustainable source of food and a practical use for its sturdy stem. With proper care and attention to its specific growing requirements, this plant can thrive and provide both aesthetic and functional benefits.
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