Organic Raw Kale leaf.  Country of Origin: Hungary

Kale is far not as well-known vegetable as cabbage. It originates from Western-Europe and it has an important role in the winter vegetable supply. People mainly consume it mixed with other vegetables as pottage. Until the end of the Middle Ages, kale was one of the most common green vegetables in Europe. The first literature data about its cultivation is from the 17th century, but probably it has been grown before. According to official statistics the sowing area is reducing, nowadays it is 600-700 ha in Hungary, but with the artisanal territories it can reach 1500 ha. The Hungarian Great Plain provides the perfect soil for the kale, because it is rich in nutrients, and its water supply exactly fulfills the desires of kale.
The kale species (Brassica oleracea convar. capitata var. sabauda) belongs to the family of cabbages, however it looks a bit different. It has no head, but long and thick stem with typical frilly leaves, that can be egg- or oblong shaped. Its foliage is normally light or dark green. It has significant nutritional needs, but its water requirement is the lowest among cabbages however it is still high and also sensitive to changing water conditions.