Rape Kale

Rape kale, a minor leafy vegetable in western Europe, is a rather important fodder during winter. It is of some importance in southern Africa, where it was introduced during colonial times. Rape Kale varieties provide young tender shoots between March and May, and are not grown as other varieties. They are sown where they will mature because they detest transplanting.The rape kales have non-tuberous roots. They are planted for their edible leaves.Rape kale is 70% self-pollinating and 30% cross-pollinated. The use is similar to leaf cabbage cultivars (Brassica oleracea L.) such as ‘sukuma wiki’ in East Africa and Portuguese kale in southern Africa. Its taste is slightly more pungent. It is used as a vegetable dish or prepared into sauces accompanying the starchy staple diet.